Balshaw is another star name going to China

England internationals Iain Balshaw and Phil Greening are also in the sevens squad.

Coach Joe Lydon is keen to build on some encouraging performances in the World Sevens Series ahead of the Commonwealth Games.

But Lydon denied that Paul had been included as a kneejerk reaction to England's poor performance in the Six Nations against France.

"This squad has a great blend of youth and experience.

"We wanted to get them - Paul and Balshaw - involved as a stepped selection.

"It was essential that we continued to develop and strengthen the squad as we approach the next two legs of the IRB Sevens," said Lydon.

"We've identified some real talent during the course of the season and a number of those who have taken part in the earlier stages of the tournament have retained their places.

"Continuity, coupled with player and squad development, will all contribute to our targeted, stepped progression as we approach the final legs of the IRB series before taking part in the Commonwealth Games."

England squad for tournaments in Beijing (15-16 March) and Hong Kong (22-24 March):

A Sanderson (Sale Sharks), P Greening (London Wasps), G Appleford (London Irish), J Lewsey (London Wasps), M Friday (London Wasps), H Paul (Gloucester), J Noon (Newcastle Falcons), S Amor (Cambridge University), H Ellis (Leicester Tigers), B Gollings (Harlequins), I Balshaw (Bath), R Haughton (Saracens).

To be added for the Hong Kong tournament:
M Stephenson (Newcastle Falcons), P Sanderson (Harlequins), J Simpson-Daniel (Gloucester).