IT LOOKS BRAD FOR ROBSHAW

Former skipper faces fight to keep place for Second Test with Shields tipped for debut

experienced player and a very good one,” said Borthwick, who highlighted his “strength of character” and “incredible” work rate.

Three weeks ago Robshaw was named co-captain against the Barbarians but Jones’ team conceded more points than any England side ever at Twickenham.

Robshaw missed seven tackles and at Ellis Park last Saturday made only seven as England let slip a 21point lead.

Borthwick said: “There were aspects of his game that went well and, as with all the players, aspects we need to improve on.”

What happened in the first Test was a collective failing and should not be laid solely at the door of Robshaw, but games at altitude are fast and it could be that Jones reckons the time is right for Shields.

Scrum-half Ben Youngs admitted: “We can’t defend like we did at the weekend.

“We were leaving doglegs, we weren’t getting set early enough, our spacing on the ruck was really poor. We were so inaccurate with our decisions around the breakdown in terms of when to compete and when not to.”

It is not certain

Robshaw will get the hook. Billy Vunipola didn’t rip up any trees either on his longawaited return.

What is sure is that Shields, a stranger to English club rugby, has made a strong impression since introducing himself to his new teammates less than a fortnight ago.

“He’s settled really well,” said

Youngs.

“He’s got vast experience.”