Wales overlook Mike Phillips for England RWC clash

Mike Phillips has been overlooked by Warren Gatland for Wales' crucial Rugby World Cup clash with England.

The neighbouring nations meet at Twickenham on Saturday level at the top of Pool A after bonus-point victories against Fiji and Uruguay.

However, Wales' tournament has been heavily disrupted by injuries with star full-back Leigh halfpenny and starting scrum-half Rhys Webb unavailable.

Webb's injury saw Gatland turn to Phillips, who had originally been left out of the 31-man squad, however, the 33-year-old will not feature against England, with Gareth Davies retaining the number nine jersey.

Hallam Amos is another surprise selection on the wing - the Newport Gwent Dragons man having seemingly impressed Gatland with a try-scoring show in Sunday's 54-9 thrashing of Uruguay. Scott Cuthbert starts on the bench.

Liam Williams has been retained at full-back, despite concerns over a calf injury, while star backs George North, Dan Biggar and Jamie Roberts return to the XV.

Wales: Liam Williams, George North, Scott Williams, Jamie Roberts, Hallam Amos, Dan Biggar, Gareth Davies, Gethin Jenkins, Scott Baldwin, Tomas Francis, Bradleys Davies, Alun Wyn Jones, Dan Lydiate, Sam Warburton, Taulupe Faletau.

Replacements: Ken Owens, Aaron Jarvis, Samson Lee, Luke Charteris, Justin Tipuric, Lloyd Williams, Rhys Priestland, Alex Cuthbert.