Care adapting to culture change

Danny Care claims it feels "weird" to be a newcomer in the England squad again but is determined not to squander his latest chance.

The controversial Harlequins scrum-half was dropped for this year's RBS 6 Nations by new head coach Stuart Lancaster after a series of off-field incidents. In his absence Lancaster rebuilt the national side after the disaster of last year's World Cup and Care has found the mood on his return markedly different.

The 25-year-old said: "It has felt a bit weird being the new boy again. But it is great to come into the squad, it is a young and exciting squad."

He went on: "I think the culture has changed quite a lot, I have noticed a big difference.

"You can really see what it means to be picked for England and what a massive honour it is. No one is going to take that for granted."

With Ben Youngs having started Saturday's opening Test loss to the Springboks in Durban and Lee Dickson on the bench, Lancaster has made clear Care must still earn a recall.

But Care, who finished the season in fine form for Quins, will get the opportunity to underline his credentials when he features in Wednesday's tour match against the Southern Barbarians in Kimberley.

Care said: "Obviously I have a point to prove. I have proved my point with my form in the Premiership for Quins, I have proved the type of player I can play as.

"Obviously I have got a chance on Wednesday and would love to get a shot in the main squad, that is why we are all here, to play in the Tests.

"Hopefully I can play well and really push my case."