BEN SKIRVING says he is determined to grab the chance to play for England with both hands after his late call-up to the squad to tour South Africa.

The Saracens number eight was busy preparing for England's Churchill Cup campaign against USA in Stockport when he received a welcome phone call late last night (Monday) from England's senior chiefs.

"I'm delighted to be involved," said the 23-year-old, who will join up with the squad later today before jetting off to South Africa this evening. "I've got the opportunity to show to the coaches what I can do and try to get in the team. Although I've been called up late, what I have in my hands now is the chance and I want to take it."

Skirving says the chance to win his first senior cap for England will not sink in until he is on the plane.

"It's going to be a very tough tour, but I've not had much time to think about it yet," he added. "There will be plenty of time to do that on the plane and I'm sure it will settle in then. I see this as a massive opportunity and it's something I want to take."