Cipriani’s Olympic bid CHRIS FOY
DANNY CIPRIANI is hoping to make up for his World Cup omission by winning a place in the Team GB Sevens squad for the Rio 2016 Olympics. The 27-year-old Sale fly-half was released by England at the end of last month. His value as a game-changing attacking threat ensured backing from the public and pundits, but the management could not find room for him in a squad featuring George Ford and Owen Farrell as the specialist No 10s. However, that same attacking talent may help Cipriani in his quest to appear at another global sporting event and
Sportsmail understands that he has long harboured ambitions of earning selection for the Rio Games. This was a target for Cipriani before he even returned to the England ranks, but in light of his World Cup disappointment the Sevens showpiece may offer him the best chance to represent his country again. Now Team GB have qualified courtesy of England’s exploits in the world Sevens series last season, the selection process will be stepped up in the months ahead. Simon Amor has been appointed head coach and, while the squad will comprise several Sevens specialists, there will be scope for outside recruits. Cipriani came to prominence as a rookie at Wasps with some eye-catching displays in the Middlesex Sevens — including five tries as the club won that event in 2006. Those wishing to be considered must play Sevens in the build-up to the Olympics, but if club commitments prevent them from taking part in the world series, they can gain eligibility via appearances in invitational tournaments arranged by their countries.