Haskell ready for Springboks challenge
Thursday, 20 Nov 2008 22:51
Haskell ready for Springboks challenge
England flanker James Haskell is hoping that he can prevent South Africa returning home with a clean sweep of victories from their tour of the UK after being given a starting berth for Saturday's clash.
The London Wasps star is one of two changes made by England team manager Martin Johnson to the side that was defeated 28-14 by Australia last weekend.
And Haskell is determined not to let the World Cup winners add to their winning run at Twickenham, with the Springboks already beating both Scotland and Wales recently.
Haskell told the rfu.com podcast: "They'll want to finish off on a high note. But we can't allow that to happen. We are well aware that they are the World Champions and we're getting ready for a big battle at the weekend.
"It feels great to be starting. I'm very excited about playing against one of the best back rows in the world, it's a big challenge but I'm looking forward to it."
The 23-year-old added that despite the defeat to Australia, there were positives to take away from the game and he hopes that there will be additional positives to speak about after Saturday's showdown.
Haskell will take the place of Tom Croft at number six, as England look for some redemption for their 16-5 World Cup final defeat to the Springboks last year.