Cipriani speculation grows

Cipriani is due to head to Australia early next month to begin his two-year contract with Super 15 franchise Melbourne Rebels.

The 22-year-old has already trained at Tottenham and QPR this summer and played in pre-season reserve games for both clubs, leading to suggestions he was angling for a switch to football.

And his presence at Major League football outfit the Rapids has only heightened doubts over his commitment to rugby.

"Dan has a friendship with members of our coaching staff and is currently training with the club," head coach Gary Smith told the club's official website.

"He wanted to take advantage of training at altitude and to engage in competitive sessions with our club as we prepare for the last part of our season."

Cipriani explained his appearances at Tottenham and QPR as an attempt to vary his training regime during the off-season.

But reports surfaced he was having second thoughts over his move to Australia and was trying to plot an escape route into football.

Cipriani explained his decision to join the Rebels as the need to make a fresh start after falling out of favour with England coach Martin Johnson.

He won the last of his seven caps two years ago amid concerns over his attitude at England and Wasps.