Jones targets Bok line-out
REACTION: England coach Eddie Jones said his team selection is based on what he feels is required to counter South Africa’s strengths.
Jones admitted the selection of New Zealander Brad Shields will give the side an extra presence in the line-out for the crucial second Test between the two countries – in Bloemfontein on Saturday.
Former captain Chris Robshaw was axed for the first time by Jones, as the England coach made two changes for the must-win encounter.
Blindside flank Robshaw lost his place to Shields, who made his debut off the bench in a 39-42 first Test loss in Johannesburg last weekend.
England must win in Bloemfontein to stand a chance of taking a series in South Africa for the first time after five failed attempts.
The final match of the three-Test series is scheduled for Cape Town on June 23.
“Based on South Africa’s selection of an extra line-out jumper, we’ve decided to start with Brad Shields which improves our line-out,” Jones said about the selection of Shields.
“It’s tough on Chris Robshaw, who has been an outstanding player for us but I know he’ll bounce back.”
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Jones also praised the “intensity and execution” of training this week as they look to avenge last Saturday’s defeat.
“We’ve had a good chance to chat about what happened and work out solutions,” said Jones.
“We’ve had a short preparation week and the intensity and execution of the sessions have put us in a good position for Saturday.
“The players are disappointed but they have moved on.
“Apart from the result on Saturday the way the team has come together has been superb, Owen Farrell, along with a number of the senior players, has really moulded the squad together – they are working hard to improve and ensure we win the game.”
And on the return of Cipriani, who is among the replacements, Jones added: “Danny Cipriani will come onto the bench, we’re looking for something a little bit different which he can bring. He’s been training well and doing everything that’s asked of him.”
And on the challenge of playing in Bloemfontein, Jones said he anticipated a ‘back and forth’ type of game, adding: “Bloemfontein is a very fast ground at altitude. It has an average of 60 points per Test match so we are anticipating an ebb-and-flow type game like we had in Johannesburg.”
