Joe Worsley will use a miniature grand piano to help him recover from a six-inch gash in his right thumb which threatens his place in the team to face Scotland on Saturday, writes Chris Jones.

The England flanker was hurt in the 34-10 win over France and must pass a fitness test - involving being able to grab a ball with only his right hand - on Friday. If he fails, his place will be taken by London Wasps team-mate Tom Rees, who is only two games into his own comeback after knee ligament damage.

Worsley, an accomplished pianist, said: "There is a mini-grand piano in Andrew Sheridan's room at the team hotel. I will try and play it about two or three hours a day because it is very good exercise for my hand and I love the blues and modern stuff.

"Sheri is a good guitar player and so we will jam together and if I can get Simon Shaw involved, we could have the heaviest band in the world."

Worsley is anxious to play in the Twickenham clash and added: "I have had most injuries in my career but this is a new one. I have to keep the thumb dry to heal."

The 31-year-old did not take part in training today but Toby Flood was able to direct operations from outside-half after his shoulder injury responded to treatment. Although Flood appears to have more chance of playing, Olly Barkley remains with the squad.

With Worsley and Flood keeping their places in the XV, fitness permitting, England today named an unchanged team for the Scotland clash - the first time that has happened since the 2007 World Cup semi-final against France. Team manager Martin Johnson said: "I expect Joe to be fit and I want him to prove that by Friday. Toby has recovered strongly after being sore."

Scotland have made just one change from the side that lost to Ireland, recalling flanker Scott Gray for John Barclay.