Cipriani 'third choice' after England snub

Despite a stellar start to the season for Gloucester, Danny Cipriani has been left out of Eddie Jones's 36-man England squad for the upcoming autumn Tests.

Rugby Cipriani Saracens v Gloucester

Danny Cipriani won't feature against South Africa, New Zealand, Japan and Australia next month. (AAP)

Head coach Eddie Jones has described Danny Cipriani as England's "third choice" five-eighth after leaving him out of England's squad for the autumn Test series.

Cipriani has been overlooked despite a strong start to the season with Gloucester which saw him named Gallagher Premiership player of the month for September.

Cipriani, who was fined over an incident at a Jersey nightclub in August, started England's most recent game against South Africa in June and set-up a pivotal try for Jonny May.

"We have got two good 10s (Owen Farrell and George Ford)," said Jones.

"It is tough on Danny but he is third choice at the moment."

Jones has made Dylan Hartley and Farrell co-captains for the Tests against South Africa, New Zealand, Japan and Australia because he sees them a great leadership combination.

The former Wallabies and Japan coach had to contend with injuries and suspensions when naming his 36-man squad which contains eight uncapped players.

"The last 12 months have been pretty challenging," said Jones.

"Since the Lions tour we've had a number of players missing so we're quite good at this."

Farrell and Ford are the recognised five-eighths in the squad, although Henry Slade and Alex Lozowski can provide cover.

Ben Morgan makes his first appearance in an England squad since the 2015 World Cup as a result of the crisis at No.8 that has seen Billy Vunipola and Sam Simmonds ruled out of the entire series by injury and Nathan Hughes miss all but the final match due to suspension.

Winger Chris Ashton is present despite having yet to make his debut for Sale with his seven-week ban for a tip-tackle having just elapsed.

Manu Tuilagi has overcome a succession of injuries to win inclusion and he will be competing with Ben Te'o - who has not played this season because of thigh and ankle problems - for selection in midfield.

England's loosehead prop resources have been decimated by Mako Vunipola's absence due to a calf issue and the international retirement of Joe Marler, leaving Alex Hepburn and Ben Moon as the only recognised options in the position.

The squad contains eight uncapped players and confirms the decline of veterans Dan Cole and James Haskell, who have been omitted once more.

The final autumn series before the 2019 World Cup is opened by the Springboks' visit to Twickenham on November 3.


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Source: AAP


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