England team manager Martin Johnson said he chose the Leicester centre because Cipriani's position of flyhalf had adequate cover through Charlie Hodgson, Olly Barkley and Toby Flood.

"He gives us further options at centre and he has been playing well for Leicester Tigers in recent weeks and deserves his chance," Johnson said of Hipkiss.

Hipkiss said he felt for Cipriani, who was ruled out for up to six months on Monday after having surgery on a broken and dislocated right ankle.

"My thoughts are with him," Hipkiss said.

"However, this gives me a chance to tour New Zealand and it will be a very tough and challenging environment.

The rugby World Cup last year will hold me in good stead, and it's an opportunity I'm looking forward to."

Nampa-AFP

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