England have faith in new boy Shields

– England have handed a first start to New Zealand-born forward Brad Shields as a replacement for Chris Robshaw at flank, while flyhalf Danny Cipriani is on the bench for the crucial second Test against South Africa in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

The selection of Shields in the squad had drawn some criticism as the 27-year-old 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 thrilling 42-39 loss to the Springboks at Ellis Park last weekend and now gets a chance from the start in one of two changes to the run-on XV by coach Eddie Jones that also sees Joe Launchbury return 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 outstanding, but I know he will bounce back,” Jones said yesterday.

Launchbury has recovered from a calf injury that had kept him out of the first Test, while Cipriani could play his first Test since 2015.

England have lost their last four Tests but Jones believes the good work they have put into training this week can see them 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. They are working hard to improve their game.” –