Rugby - Cole spurred on by Lions experience

Cole appeared in all three Tests of the series, which the Lions won 2-1, as a second-half substitute with Adam Jones of Wales starting each match against the Wallabies.

The 26-year-old Leicester tight-head, who will start Saturday’s QBE International at Twickenham, admits his place in the Lions’ pecking order has compelled him to improve.

“I came back from the tour frustrated, but the Lions won the series so I can’t complain,” he said.

“I was happy to be involved in the Tests but obviously you want to play, you want to start. I didn’t and Adam Jones did a brilliant job.

“You use it as motivation. The next time round you want to be starting.

“The Lions’ starting tight-head (Jones) is probably the best tight-head in the world. He’s certainly up there.

“You want to be that person so you work harder than you’ve done before to get there.”

Cole admits he was fatigued at times last season, a product of his heavy workload of being involved in 40 games.

That number maintains an upward curve in minutes played over the last few seasons that confronts the 26-year-old with a difficult balancing act.

“You want to play every game. I want to play for Leicester, I want to play for England. That’s what I’m here to do,” he said.

“But you also try to be the best you can be and I don’t think 40 games a year is particularly useful.

“That’s when you trust in your coaches and everyone else to look after you. So far, touch wood, they’ve done a good job.

“I’m sure there’s a tipping point. We’ll know about it when we get there.”

Prop Mako Vunipola has been ruled out against Argentina with a knee injury.

Vunipola started Saturday’s 20-13 victory over Australia but was expected to drop to the bench against the Pumas following Alex Corbisiero’s return from a knee problem.

“Mako is unfortunately struggling with a ligament strain to his knee and is not available for selection this week,” head coach Stuart Lancaster said.

Article source: http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/Gloucester-Rugby-Jonny-Bentley-set-Munster/story-19958539-detail/story.html

Rugby - Cole spurred on by Lions experience