Ashton relishing Springboks challenge

Head coach Brian Ashton has demanded a "positive outlook" as England's under-strength squad begin preparations for the Test series against South Africa.

Ashton has taken a severely-depleted party on tour after deciding not to select players from European finalists Leicester, Wasps and Bath.

"We're not here to make up the numbers - we hope to be competitive, and that all starts with a positive outlook," said Ashton. "This tour comes at a time where we can achieve a lot ahead of the World Cup. There is still a lot of room to move before we finalise the squad at the end of June."

He added: "There is a lot of work that still had to be done within our ranks.

"There is a group of players who are out here that will be doing everything they can to make that training group, and there is equally a group at home who will be doing the same thing."

England will prepare in Johannesburg at altitude before flying to Bloemfontein a day before the first Test, which takes place on May 26.