Shields to make first England start; Cipriani on bench

DURBAN: England has handed a first start to New Zealandborn forward Brad Shields as a replacement for Chris Robshaw at flank, while first fiveeighth Danny Cipriani is on the bench for the crucial second test against South Africa in Bloemfontein tomorrow.

The selection of Shields in the squad for the threematch tour had drawn some criticism as the 27yearold has never played club rugby in England but qualified to represent the country through his parents.

He earned a first cap off the bench in the 4239 loss to the Springboks at Ellis Park last weekend and now gets a chance from the start in one of two changes to the runon XV by coach Eddie Jones.

Joe Launchbury returns at lock for the ineffective Nick Isiekwe.

‘‘Based on South Africa’s likely selection of an extra lineout jumper we have decided to start with Brad Shields, which improves our lineout. It is tough on Chris Robshaw as he has been an outstanding player for us but I know he will bounce back,’’ Jones said.

Launchbury has recovered from a calf injury, while Cipriani could play his first test since 2015.

‘‘Danny Cipriani will come on to the bench as we are looking for something a little bit different to finish the game, which he can bring. He’s been training well and doing everything that has been asked of him,’’ Jones said.

England has lost its past four tests but Jones believes the good work it has put into training this week can enable it to end that barren run.

‘‘The way the team have come together has been superb. [Captain] Owen Farrell, with a number of the senior players, has really moulded the squad together.’’ — Reuters