Race against time for Twelvetrees

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England head coach Stuart Lancaster admits 'the clock is ticking' for Billy Twelvetrees to prove his fitness for the first Test.

England head coach Stuart Lancaster admits 'the clock is ticking' for Billy Twelvetrees to prove his fitness for the first Test.

The Gloucester centre has been struggling with an ankle problem and missed training on Monday ahead of Saturday's game at Eden Park.

Expected to start in the 12 shirt inside Manu Tuilagi, Lancaster revealed he was the only major concern, with hooker Rob Webber and prop Joe Marler both on track.

“Billy still hasn't trained fully so we'll see how he progresses during the course of the week, but the clock is ticking now,” Lancaster said.

“He's the major one – everyone else should be good to go.”

Lancaster confirmed that Northampton hooker Dylan Hartley would fly out with the rest of the squad additions on Monday after coming through unscathed in the Premiership Final.

“Dylan got on around 60 minutes and played the extra time as well,” added Lancaster.

“He seemed to come through fine and he'll definitely be on the plane as he's an experienced player for us.

“As to whether Dylan will start the second Test, I'll make that decision after the first Test.”