When you strip it all down it's still rugby - union or league Andy Robinson

England coach Andy Robinson will use the cross-code scheme to prepare for their RBS Six Nations opener at Wales' Millennium Stadium on 5 February.

"Any team can learn from other sports," said Robinson, who played for Bath in cross-code games eight years ago.

"Continually taking the players out of their comfort zone is no bad thing, and it applies pressure in different ways."

Robinson rubber-stamped the session after talks with Rhinos boss Tony Smith.

"It's about creating a different environment," said Robinson.

"Their rules are a bit different with more space and security of possession, but when you strip it all down it's still rugby - union or league."

I have been highly impressed by Andy and his coaching methods Tony Smith Leeds Rhinos boss

The gathering, from 17-19 January, will be of particular interest to Robinson's assistants, former rugby league coaches Joe Lydon and Phil Larder.

"You study anything you think could give you new ideas - and if you don't then you will be left behind," said Lydon.

"When I was England Sevens coach in recent years I looked closely at basketball, because there are a lot of similarities in offence and defence with sevens."

While England focus on the Six Nations, Leeds also have an important date in mind - a 4 February World Club Challenge game against New Zealand side Canterbury Bulldogs.

"I have been highly impressed by Andy and his coaching methods in our initial discussions, and we have already developed a mutual respect for each other," said Smith.