Cipriani left out of England plans
Danny Cipriani will play no part in England’s RBS 6 Nations opener against Italy at Twickenham.
The Wasps fly-half has been relegated to second-string England Saxons duty for their appointment with Ireland A in Dublin on Friday night.
He was dropped for England’s final autumn Test against New Zealand just over two months ago, following a poor display in the 42-6 drubbing by world champions South Africa a week earlier.
But the 21-year-old now finds himself surplus to senior England team requirements.
The request for Cipriani to be involved with the Saxons was made by England manager Martin Johnson. Leicester scrum-half Harry Ellis is also part of that 24-man group.
Johnson said: “Harry and Danny will spend this week with the Saxons as they prepare to play Ireland A on Friday.
“Both players remain in my plans for the RBS 6 Nations, but I would like to see them get some game time with the Saxons.
“Harry benefited from playing with them last week, and I will be in regular contact with Saxons head coach Stuart Lancaster during the course of the week.”
Leicester’s Toby Flood is expected to wear the England number 10 shirt against Italy on Saturday.
