Danny Cipriani will play no part in England's opening match of this year's Six Nations against Italy on Saturday after he was left out of the side by manager Martin Johnson and instead relegated to the Saxons squad.

It is the second time the fly-half has been dropped following his absence for the final autumn Test against New Zealand just over two months ago, following a poor display in the 42-6 drubbing by world champions South Africa a week earlier.

The request for Cipriani to be involved with the Saxons was made by England manager Martin Johnson. Leicester scrum-half Harry Ellis is also part of that 24-man group.

"Harry and Danny will spend this week with the Saxons as they prepare to play Ireland A on Friday," confirmed Johnson. "Both players remain in my plans for the RBS 6 Nations, but I would like to see them get some game time with the Saxons.

"Harry benefited from playing with them last week, and I will be in regular contact with Saxons head coach Stuart Lancaster during the course of the week."

Leicester's Toby Flood is expected to wear the number 10 shirt at Twickenham on Saturday.