New breed of Vunipola set for Saracens run as Manu prepares for debut

Harlequins v Saracens (Saturday 3pm)

Teenager Manu Vunipola is set to follow in the footsteps of his cousins, England stars Billy and Mako, by making his debut for Saracens on Saturday.

The 18-year-old has been named on the bench for Saracens’ Premiership Cup match against London rivals Harlequins.

If he gets on for his debut, he will be the latest member of the Vunipola clan to turn out for Saracens. Neither Billy nor Mako will be involved in this one, though, as they are in Portugal preparing for England’s Six Nations opener against Ireland a week on Saturday.

Unlike his cousins, Manu is not a bruising forward but a fly-half. He has so far only played for Saracens Storm, the club’s A League side, but he will now be hoping to make his senior bow.

Vunipola was called up to the England Under-18 squad last year and has also spent time on loan at Bishop’s Stortford.

Born in New Zealand, he attended King Alfred School in Somerset upon moving to England before later joining Harrow. His father, Elisi, played in Super Rugby for the Brumbies, as well as appearing 41 times for Tonga.

Saracens have made plenty of changes for the trip to Quins as they look to continue their unbeaten Cup run. Victory would move them top of Pool 2 above Worcester Warriors, who do not play their final match against Wasps until next weekend.

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