Former Oxford schoolboy Henry Barratt has been included in the England side for their crucial pool match against Japan at Newbury tonight (Tues, 7.30pm).

Barratt, the NEC Harlequins threequarter, who was educated The Dragon School and St Edward's Oxford, was not picked for England's opening match against Australia on Friday, when the hosts were crushed 52-22.

Following that defeat, England know that nothing less than a win will be sufficient, if they are to make a serious impact on the competition.

England team manager Peter Drewett admits: "It's clearly vital that we do very well against Japan and France in the next two games, to keep our hopes alive."

Only three of the side who started against Australia - full back Ed Thrower, centre Chris Bell and lock James Pendlebury - are included in the line-up to face Japan, with scrum half Paul Hodgson leading the team for the first time.

He links up with Adryan Winnan at fly half, with newcomer Andy Raey making his debut in the centre. Exeter Chiefs' prop Jason Hobson also earns his first cap.

Gloucester's exciting winger Marcel Garvey is rested against Japan, who lost their opening game to New Zealand 61-14.

Drewett said: "Against Australia we made some basic errors at crucial early moments of the game that allowed Australia to capitalise on possession.

"Five players earned their first cap in the game, but everyone learnt a great deal and the whole squad is looking forward to the chance to put these things right.

"Japan look an excellent team - well organised and able to play at great pace and with real width."

Meanwhile, there are two attractive games at Iffley Road today, involving four teams, who won their opening matches.

Argentina, who trounced Canada 62-13, take on Wales, 37-19 conquerors of Scotland this afternoon (3).

Then, two of the big guns - France and New Zealand - clash tonight (7).

Spectators are reminded there is no public parking at Iffley Road, where there is expected to be another four-figure crowd.

England (v Japan, Newbury, 7.30): E Thrower (London Irish), J Bailey (Bristol Shoguns), C Bell (NEC Harlequins), A Reay (NEC Harlequins), H Barratt (NEC Harlequins), A Winnan (Saracens), P Hodgson (Bristol Shoguns) capt, A Croall (Saracens), R Hawkins (Bath), J Hobson (Exeter Chiefs), J Pendlebury (Bath), G Parling (Newcastle Falcons), J Hart (London Wasps), R Peacey (Saracens), B Skirving (Saracens). Reps: C Rowland (Bristol Shoguns), M Holford (Leicester Tigers), C Day (Sharks), B Woods (Newcastle Falcons), C Stuart-Smith (Gloucester), B Davies (Gloucester), U Monye (NEC Harlequins).