TONY DIPROSE has put his midsummer night's disaster behind him and is aiming to win what he thinks is English rugby's most open title race ever.

The Saracens skipper, who led England to that record defeat by Australia in Brisbane in June, believes he benefited from going on the so-called tour from hell which saw England humiliated at almost every turn.

"The tour was about who could hack it in that company and who couldn't. Hopefully I am in the right group," he said.

"There were low points, such as not being picked for the first test in New Zealand.

"I was disappointed by that because I didn't think there was anything else I could have done on an individual level against Australia.

"But in the second test against the All Blacks I had one of my best games for England and had a good game in South Africa as well."

Diprose had a thankless task against the Wallabies. He led perhaps the greenest group of players ever to turn out in the famous white jersey in the backyard of one of the game's superpowers.

He may, unfairly, be remembered as the captain who led England to that record defeat, but he has no regrets.

"I wouldn't take back the chance to captain England. It will always be one of my greatest honours.

And he does not regret touring, although he is paying the price in physical exertion now.

"I do believe some positives can be taken from the tour. Seven or eight players came through who will be part of the squad in the future.

"But it has been tough back in training now. Those who toured came back a week-and-a-half after everybody else and it has been really hard."

Diprose predicts a different Saracens side to the one which electrified the last campaign and he is confident his side can overcome the several sides who he thinks are capable of lifting the title.

He said: "I think there are six or seven sides who can win the league, I really think it is that open.

"Newcastle haven't changed that much, while Bath and Leicester should be there or thereabouts.

"Northampton have made some key signings, such as Mendez and Pat Lam, while Gloucester will threaten if they get a run of results together.

"We have a slightly different side. Alain brings different things to what Michael did, but they are both fantastic players.

"Different people play different ways but, like last year, we will be trying to keep the ball alive and play entertaining rugby.

"There is no reason at all why we can't go one better this year."

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