Rugby: Johnson up for Springbok challenge

Martin Johnson has pronounced himself ready to lead England against the Springboks after strolling through his comeback match for Leicester.

The England skipper ended his five-week lay-off with a broken hand in the Tigers' emphatic 37-3 win over Sale, playing all but five minutes of the table-topping clash.

"I started feeling the pace but I don't think I did any worse than anyone else," he said. "I got a bang on my elbow which is fine and felt a little bit of cramp in my calf.

"Clive (Woodward) will select the side on Monday or Tuesday or whatever and I'm available with everyone else."