Controversial England selection Brad Shields has added an extra element to the squad on their tour of South Africa, new teammate Chris Robshaw says.
New Zealand-born Shields has opted to pursue an international career with England, for whom he qualifies through his parents, in a move that has drawn considerable criticism, even from World Rugby vice-chairman Agustin Pichot.
The Hurricanes flanker was granted a special release by New Zealand Rugby to join England’s squad for the three-Test tour before he moves to English Premiership side Wasps later this year.
“We’ve only got to know him over the last day or so but he is hungry to learn,” Robshaw said at a news conference ahead of Saturday’s first Test in Johannesburg.
Shields, 27, arrived in South Africa directly from New Zealand, a day after the rest of the touring party came in from London.
“He has brought something new and is trying to soak it all in, whether it’s line-outs, scrum play or whatever it be, so he is ready,” Robshaw added.
“That’s what you want from players, that hunger and excitement to be involved.”
Meanwhile, Joe Launchbury remains in doubt for Saturday’s match but England will give him every chance to prove his fitness.
The in-form Wasps captain was once again unable to train with Eddie Jones’ squad on Wednesday due to the calf injury sustained in practice last week.
Launchbury is set to form a second-row partnership alongside Maro Itoje if fit, with Nick Isiekwe and Jonny Hill the alternatives if he fails to recover in time.
England name their team on Thursday and are hopeful that their veteran lock will be involved.
“We’re giving Joe the best possible chance to play this weekend,” defence coach Paul Gustard said.
“He’s on a modified program. We’ll have to assess how he came though today (Wednesday). We’ll assess it later on when we have our selection meeting.”