Rauluni warns Borthwick and England

Close quarters: Rauluni to face Borthwick at HQ

Mosese Rauluni is hoping to give Steve Borthwick a hard time when he goes head-to-head with his Saracens team-mate next weekend at Twickenham.

The pair will lead their respective teams out as England open their autumn series against the Pacific Islanders next Saturday.

And despite admitting he has the utmost respect for his club colleague, the Fijian scrum-half is hoping to spoil his party.

"We're looking for our first Test win. Hopefully, we can spoil it for Steve and Martin Johnson's team," he said.

"Steve is a great leader and a perfect choice for England. He'll certainly inspire the boys and bring out the best in the English team. But, hopefully, I can do the same for the Islanders."

Borthwick too is full of praise for his opposite number, who scored for the Watford-based side on his most recent outing against Northampton.

"Mosese is a terrific player and he's very impressive as a person and as a captain too. Come match day I'm sure we'll both be desperate to put in great performances for our teams," the lock said.

"It's a great honour and I'll be very pleased to lead out such an excellent team, especially at Twickenham, our home ground, in front of our magnificent supporters.

"It's a real privilege to be able to play there. The more people that are there to cheer on England and help support us, the more difference it makes.

"Hopefully, we can ensure we get England off to a great start."