Cipriani promoted to Senior EPS

England Team Manager Martin Johnson has made three changes to the 32-man Senior Elite Player Squad for the four-match Test series next month.

England Team Manager Martin Johnson has promoted fly-half Danny Cipriani in one of three changes to his 32-man Senior Elite Player Squad for the four-match Test series next month.

Under the injury replacement provisions of the RFU/Premier Rugby agreement, Michael Lipman replaces Lewis Moody, who is recovering from surgery on his left hip and left Achilles tendon.

Elsewhere, in-form full-back Nick Abendanon replaces wing Tom Varndell with Cipriani taking injured Jonny Wilkinson's place in the squad.

All three players have been promoted from the England Saxons group with changes effective from the week of October 26.

“The England medical team and I will continue to liaise closely with Jonny and Lewis and their clubs and I wish both of them a speedy recovery,” Johnson said.

“Lewis is getting closer to playing for Leicester and I look forward to seeing him back in action soon.

“Danny Cipriani has made a good recovery from his injury and returned earlier than expected.

“He's performed well since he came back and while there was strong competition from other players I have decided to give Danny the chance to compete for a place in the 22 for the Pacific Islanders match on November 8.

“Michael Lipman was very unlucky not to make the original 32-man Senior EPS squad and he has been playing very well for his club this season.

“I'm disappointed for Tom Varndell but he has not been selected by Leicester recently and we will monitor his form when he starts playing regularly again and competing for a place in the Senior EPS squad.”