Danny Cipriani is the best fly-half in England - James Haskell

Former England international James Haskell believes Gloucester's Danny Cipriani should be a part of the red rose team's World Cup campaign that kicks-off next month in Japan.

Cipriani was left out of England's training camp in Treviso and was also omitted from the 33-man squad ahead of the first warm-up game against Wales at Twickenham Stadium this weekend.

The 31-year-old had a great domestic season for the Cherry and Whites and was named the player’s player of the season and player of the season at both the RPA awards and the Premiership Rugby awards and Haskell feels Cipriani is the best fly-half in England at the moment.

“I always feel for Danny, I think he’s an incredible player. For me he’s probably the best fly-half in England at the moment on the form of last season.

“Obviously Eddie and the coaching staff have their reasons why.

“I think he’s someone that you should always have in the squad, he has that ability to perform, he can do things that the other guy’s can’t.”

Haskell has played for England 77 times and was part of the 2011 and 2015 World Cup campaigns but announced his retirement from professional rugby in May this year.

The former back-row reckons England will be among the favourites to win the upcoming showpiece event in Japan despite an indifferent last year.

“I think the World Cup is massively exciting for England,” Haskell added.

“Eddie (Jones) has left no stone unturned in pursuit of making the best team possible. I think they’ve taken training to a new level.

“I’ve had conversations with Eddie and he’s excited. I’m an England fan now and no longer a player and I’m excited to see us go on and win it.”

“For me, it’s the best chance England have had since 2003, I think we’re in the best possible place to go and compete.”