Hopes of an England recall remain high for Cipriani

Cipriani agreed to join the newly-created Super 15 franchise on a two-year contract after discovering he did not figure in Martin Johnson's immediate plans.

Just two years after wowing Twickenham with a headline-grabbing display against Ireland that suggested England had uncovered their next fly-half, he finds himself marginalised under Johnson.

The 22-year-old has slipped to sixth in the position's pecking order amid reports his public profile and attitude had put him on a collision course with England's management.

A career-threatening ankle injury and broken leg restricted his appearances but after making full recoveries he found himself exiled to the Saxons squad.

Cipriani still sees representing England as his ultimate goal and feels his move Down Under can aid his development to that end.

"I have been given no indication that I'm pushing for a place with England at the moment," he said. "With England it hasn't panned out as I'd wanted – I hoped to play for them week-in, week-out. Obviously I need to see what is the best way for me to prolong my England career.

"England have always been my ambition and hopefully this move will prolong my international career in the long run.

"If I go to Australia and do well against guys like Dan Carter and Matt Giteau, I'll still be putting my hand up for the shirt."

Cipriani was offered more lucrative terms to join Stade Francais and while he denies wanting to escape England, he admits he will receive less attention in Australia.

Known as much for his relationship with model Kelly Brook and presence in the gossip columns as his exploits on the pitch, he hinted that he has grown weary of the exposure.

"I don't think that if I went to France I'd have learnt too much more than I have now. It's a similar layout and format to here," he said. "For me to have a change and to have a new outlook on life and rugby I had to change the environment.

"I don't think there will be so much paparazzi out there."