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Rugby Union

Cipriani eyes number ten spot

22/01/2008

Wasps fly-half Danny Cipriani has claimed he wants to oust England star Jonny Wilkinson from the number ten shirt during the 2008 Six Nations.

Wilkinson, 28, has been England's talisman for several years, leading the team to two consecutive Rugby World Cup finals in 2003 and 2007.

Cipriani, 20, is part of the well-publicised 'new guard' coming through the ranks in English rugby and has been tipped for future stardom.

The youngster claims he still has much to learn from Wilkinson, England's record points-scorer, but wants to compete on a level playing field with the Newcastle Falcons man for a place in Brian Ashton's starting XV.

"It is obviously going to be a massive task to oust Jonny, he has done everything in the game," said Cipriani.

"But I am not coming here as a number two."

Cipriani hailed the impact of Wilkinson on the world game, saying he has "done an amazing job" with England and has "changed the face of rugby by himself".

But despite the high praise, Cipriani claimed he wants to learn the tricks of the trade in international rugby before deposing his mentor.

"If I can learn from Jonny that will help me," he continued.

"I will give it my best shot to improve. I need to make sure there are no doubts about me as a player.

"If I was to have a chance to start a game I would do that to the best of my ability.

"I want to get an England cap and then one day be a regular starter."