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Joseph to start in Johannesburg

2012-06-14 11:36:02

England have given Jonathan Joseph his starting debut in this Saturday’s second Test against South Africa at Coca Cola Park in Johannesburg

The London Irish centre comes in at 13 in place of Manu Tuilagi, who switches inside for Brad Barritt in a side showing five changes - two positional - from the one that started the first Test in Durban.

Toby Flood replaces Owen Farrell at fly-half, Ben Foden moves to full-back for the injured Mike Brown and David Strettle comes on to the wing.

The pack remains the same while there are changes on the bench, where Alex Corbisiero gets a first opportunity in the series, in place of Paul Doran Jones, while Alex Goode fills in.

“I am delighted for JJ. He has trained very well and showed against the Barbarians and in his short time on the field in the 1st Test that he is ready to make the step to international rugby. To have two 21-year-old centres is exciting and we are looking forward to seeing this combination in action,” said England coach Stuart Lancaster.

“Owen has had a fantastic season and I am sure he will make a significant impact from the bench. However, Toby has waited patiently for his opportunity and the time is right to allow him the chance to demonstrate his experience and skills in what will be a tough challenge.

“It’s a shame for Mike Brown who worked hard to get that Test start but Ben Foden naturally reverts to full back and we return to the wing partnership of David Strettle and Chris Ashton that serves us well in the RBS 6 Nations.”

England: 15 Ben Foden, 14 Chris Ashton, 13 Jonathan Joseph, 12 Manusamoa Tuilagi, 11 David Strettle, 10 Toby Flood, 9 Ben Youngs, 8 Ben Morgan, 7 Chris Robshaw (capt), 6 Tom Johnson, 5 Geoff Parling, 4 Mouritz Botha, 3 Dan Cole, 2 Dylan Hartley, 1 Joe Marler.
Replacements: 16 Lee Mears, 17 Alex Corbisiero, 18 Tom Palmer, 19 Phil Dowson, 20 Lee Dickson, 21 Owen Farrell, 22 Alex Goode.

Date: Saturday, June 16
Kick-off: 17:00 (16:00 BST, 15:00 GMT)
Venue: Coca-Cola Park, Johannesburg
Referee: Alain Rolland (Ireland)
Assistant referees: Steve Walsh (Australia), Simon McDowell (Ireland)
Television match official: Iain Ramage (Scotland)