England coach Stuart Lancaster: 'Sam Burgess in Rugby World Cup squad on merit'

England coach Stuart Lancaster has claimed that including Sam Burgess in his Rugby World Cup squad 'is not a gamble'.

The Bath centre was named in the 31-man party on Thursday despite making just one senior international appearance since his conversion from rugby league to rugby union 10 months ago.

Former England captain Will Carling recently suggested that Burgess should not be in the squad due to his lack of union experience, but Lancaster has claimed that the 26-year-old is worthy of his place.

"I wouldn't describe it as a gamble," he is quoted as saying by Sky Sports News. "I understand the size of this decision, but I understand the size of every decision when you're in a World Cup year. Every one is a big one.

"He's done great. He's earned the right. He's picked on merit from what we've seen in the camp."

England play their final warm-up game ahead of the Rugby World Cup against Ireland at Twickenham Stadium on September 5.