Danny Cipriani is still on track to make a return to international rugby, after he was named in head coach Stuart Lancaster’s initial 30-man squad to fly to New Zealand.
England will face the All Blacks – the opposition in Cipriani’s last Test cap, back in 2008 – in a three-match series next month.
Owen Farrell will join the touring party after Saturday’s Premiership Final, while George Ford is set to miss the tour altogether to undergo shoulder surgery.
That leaves Cipriani and Freddie Burns fighting for the No.10 shirt ahead of the first Test in Auckland and Lancaster is confident in whoever is handed the starting berth.
“We are excited about the squad we are taking to New Zealand and, while there continues to be challenges in selection, we will be well and truly ready for the first Test,” said Lancaster.
“It has been a good few days’ training and great to be able to work with a larger group of players in the lead up to the Barbarians game and the tour.
“With the Barbarians game and the Aviva Premiership final to come we will make our final selection once we know the availability of all players. This group will fly out on the Monday following the Barbarians game.”
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