Mears praise for Regan

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Mears has been preferred to former Bath colleague Mark Regan for Saturday's RBS 6 Nations clash against Scotland at Murrayfield, and although England head coach Brian Ashton refuses to write off 36-year-old Regan from achieving further international honours, the writing is clearly on the wall.

But Mears said: "Ronnie [Regan's nickname] is a tough competitor, and I know he won't lie down."

Regan, labelled a "clown" by France coach Marc Lievremont following England's 24-13 victory over Les Bleus 11 days ago, makes way for an in-form Mears.

While he is currently battling to pin down a starting place with his club Bristol, Mears has played a prominent role maintaining Bath's healthy position in the Guinness Premiership title play-off zone.

The Edinburgh clash will be just Mears' fourth start during an England career that started against Samoa - the first of 18 appearances as a replacement - more than two years ago.

"I have learnt a lot from Ronnie over the years, and the competitor in him is something I would like to have in my game," Mears said.

Mears now has a chance to pin down the England number two shirt, and Ashton said: "It is a great opportunity for him.

"He has waited a long time, and I am sure he will take this opportunity with both hands.

"He's played extremely well for Bath this season. He has got a very rounded game, and we hope he will show it at the weekend."