FORMER Henley Hawks prop Alec Hepburn made his senior international debut as England beat Italy in their Six Nations opener.

The front-row forward, who now plays for Aviva Premiership champions Exeter Chiefs, was named as a replacement for the clash in Rome today.

Hepburn replaced loosehead Mako Vunipola with seven minutes to go, helping England see out a 46-15 victory.

The 24-year-old, who was born in Australia, attended Henley College, captained Oxfordshire U17s and played for London Welsh during their spell in Oxford.

Hepburn benefited from suspensions to Joe Marler, Beno Obano, Ellis Genge and Matt Mullan.

But he pushed his way into contention following a training camp in Portugal to be included in the 23-man squad.

Meanwhile, Henley full back Tom Parton scored a try to help England U20s beat Italy 27-17 in Gorizia on Friday.

Clubmate Joe Morris, who attends Oxford University, was among the replacements.