Care and Haskell can make South Africa tour, says Lancaster
ENGLAND coach Stuart Lancaster has opened the door for Danny Care and James Haskell to return to the international set-up for this summer’s tour to South Africa, though he accepts the duo will never be coached by Wayne Smith.
The Harlequins scrum-half was overlooked by England for this year’s Six Nations following myriad off-field controversies but after holding talks with him, Lancaster admitted Care would be considered if his form was good enough.
“Danny Care is someone I have met recently and I am pleased with what he is doing off the field in terms of working hard to force himself back into contention,” said Lancaster, “I had a positive meeting with him and he is one I will consider for the tour.”
Lancaster also revealed that flanker James Haskell, scheduled to return to Wasps for next season, will again be under consideration as his time with Super 15 side Highlanders comes to a close, despite a current three-week ban for punching.
He said: “James Haskell will be coming back into the equation. I have spoken to him about his availability. James has a three-week ban, his next game would be May 26, then he will play a Super 15 on June 2 and then join us, if selected.”
Haskell’s former Wasps team-mate Danny Cipriani, however, appears unlikely to play any part, even though Lancaster admitted the fly-half could have a future role.
“Danny Cipriani is another one but I think the next step for him is to go to Sale, do the pre-season,” said Lancaster. “He is in a competitive position. Hopefully he will earn
the right to get back in there
next season.”
Lancaster revealed World Cup winning former New Zealand coach Smith had rejected a job offer, in a second snub following Andy Farrell decision to stay at Saracens. London Irish’s Mike Catt will take Farrell’s place as backs coach in South Africa, and possibly beyond.
“Mike has played for England for 12 years and has a wealth of experience,” Lancaster added. “He has played in South Africa and been with the Lions. It will be really exciting to work with him.”
Haskell’s return to the England squad may be more important than previously anticipated, after a neck injury suffered by Leicester flanker Tom Croft ruled him out of selection for the South Africa tour. He joins Rob Webber, Courtney Lawes, Tom Woods, Joe Simpson and Charlie Sharples in being injured, while Calum Clark is suspended.
It is hoped, however, that Ugo Monye, Anthony Allen and Alex Corbisiero will regain fitness in time to tour.
SCHEDULE
England tour of South Africa
● Saturday 9 June: First Test, Durban, 4pm
● Wednesday 13 June: v SA Barbarians South, Kimberley, 1.30pm
● Saturday 16 June: Second Test, Johannesburg, 4pm
● Tuesday 19 June: v SA Barbarians North, Potchefstroom, 6.10pm
● Saturday 23 June: Third Test, Port Elizabeth, 4pm
All times BST