Topsy Ojo, the London Irish flier, today burst on to the international rugby scene by winning a place in the England squad for next month's two-Test trip to New Zealand.

Ojo has had an outstanding season. His try-scoring exploits helped Irish reach the Heineken Cup semi-finals and have gained instant recognition from Martin Johnson, England's new manager.

The 22-year-old wing is one of six uncapped players in a 32-man party captained by Steve Borthwick, of Bath.

It also features Harlequins scrum-half Danny Care, who goes as first-choice No9 instead of Harry Ellis.

Club-mate Mike Brown is the only specialist full-back named and will start in the No15 jersey vacated by Iain Balshaw, who, like Gloucester wing Lesley Vainikolo, is not required in New Zealand.

The latter faces a battle to regain lost ground after being told by Johnson he needs to improve his fledgling union skills.

The new England boss said: "I have had a chat with Lesley and he has a few injury issues and needs to get ready for next season. We will also have time to improve him as a player during the summer.

"Ojo is one of a number of exciting young wings and it was a close call that went in his favour."

Brian Smith, the London Irish director of rugby, expects Ojo to take his chance and said: "It's not only Topsy's try-scoring ability that makes him stand out - his defensive work is top-rate as well."

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