England coach Brian Ashton faces a selection nightmare for the first Test with the Springboks in South Africa on May 26 after both Wasps and Leicester reached the European Cup final.
The final is on May 20 which will mean Ashton having to do without at least nine of the players that started the world champions last Six Nations match against Wales as England's director of rugby Rob Andrew has stated no player will play in both matches.
Adding to Ashton's woes is that his former club Bath have also reached the European Challenge Cup final against French side Clermont, which is at Harlequins ground The Stoop on May 19.
England captain Phil Vickery admitted to mixed emotions after Wasps' victory over Northampton meant he would play in the European Cup final but miss the first Test.
"If [England coach] Brian Ashton had any hair left, he would be pulling it out. It must be frustrating for him," Vickery said.
"It is disappointing for everyone -- for South Africa, for England. Good planning again from the people running the game," he added with heavy irony.
Andrew had made it plain earlier this month that there would be no doubling up for the players.
"You can't prepare guys to play a Test at altitude in Bloemfontein six days later [than the European Cup final]. It's not possible," Andrew said.
No decision has been taken yet about the availability of the players for the second Test against South Africa on June 2.
The two-Test South Africa tour is part of England's preparations for the World Cup defense in France which begins on Sept. 7.
Otago Highlanders flanker Josh Blackie is joining the exodus of high profile New Zealand rugby players after signing a two-year contract with Japanese side Kobe Steel.
The 27-year-old loose forward is leaving after nine years of being battered in first class rugby in New Zealand. Although he never played for the All Blacks, he has been one of the most respected New Zealand flankers in recent seasons.
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