Martin Johnson warns Dan Cipriani over Melbourne Rebels Super 15 move

From correspondents in London, England
February 06, 2010.

England manager Martin Johnson warned Danny Cipriani he would not be considered for the national team if went through with a proposed move to new Super 15 franchise Melbourne Rebels.

Reports in England claimed Cipriani was approached by the Rebels about joining them once his current contract with Wasps ends in May.

A move to Australia would rule the fly half out of the 2011 Six Nations and therefore almost certainly out of Johnson's plans for the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand later in the year.

Asked whether it was possible Cipriani could remain part of the elite squad when based in Melbourne, Johnson responded: "No, of course it's not.

"The seasons are the same. They are playing through February and March so he wouldn't be available for England during the Six Nations.

"It is his choice. If he wants to do that, it is up to him. It is impossible for him to play for England in the Six Nations if he is over there. I am sure he understands that."

Cipriani, 22, appears to be seriously considering moving Down Under having grown disillusioned about his chances of establishing himself as an England regular under Johnson, who admitted he had made no effort to persuade him to stay.

The Times said Cipriani had in principle made up his mind several days ago after being told by a close associate that Johnson did not consider him part of his plans for the immediate future.

However, Rebels coach Rod Macqueen has seemingly has put club culture ahead of the franchise's pressing need to secure a top-name recruit by deciding not to sign former Cipriani.

Macqueen said on Friday he was adamant the Rebels would not be making him an offer "at this stage".

"I don't know how reports that he is coming to us have gained such credence in England," Macqueen said.

"Right now he's not the player we want."

Once considered the heir apparent to Jonny Wilkinson, Cipriani's international career stalled in the wake of a serious ankle injury in 2008 and he is currently part of the second-string Saxons squad, for whom he is due to play against Italy A on Sunday. in London has reported that Cipriani, has decided to cut his losses in Britain and commit to the new Victorian franchise

- With The Australian

Agence France-Presse