Lion Cole gets nod for New Zealand clash

British & Irish Lion Dan Cole returns to the England side to face world champions New Zealand in just one change made by Stuart Lancaster this weekend. [more]

Lion Cole gets nod for New Zealand clash

British & Irish Lion Dan Cole returns to the England side to face world champions New Zealand in just one change made by Stuart Lancaster this weekend.

Cole, who came off the bench for all three of the Lions’ summer Tests against Australia, was a replacement for last weekend’s victory over Argentina but he will win his 43rd England cap on Saturday.

In the England XV, he is joined by fellow Lions Owen Farrell and Billy Twelvetrees while brothers Tom and Ben Youngs, as well as Geoff Parling, are on the replacements bench.

Lancaster is without further Lions in Mako Vunipola, Alex Corbisiero and Manu Tuilagi through injury but hooker Dylan Hartley, who was named in the original touring party before missing out through suspension, wins his 50th cap.

Lancaster said: “It’s a great achievement for Dylan to reach 50 caps. We are a young side but one that is growing with every game and it’s important to have leaders like Dylan.

“We have had some enforced changes with Alex Corbisiero and Mako Vunipola unavailable and we have been unable to consider a number of players due to short and long term injuries.

“But we are ready for the challenge of playing a top quality side in New Zealand and are excited about playing at Twickenham.

“The atmosphere was amazing for this game last year – the crowd made a real difference and I'm sure they can help inspire us again on Saturday.” 

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