England scrum half Danny Care has been ruled out of tomorrow's first Test against New Zealand, Press Association Sport understands.

Former Prince Henry's Grammar School pupil Care misses the series opener at Eden Park because of a shoulder injury but remains in contention for the second Test in Dunedin seven days later.

Ben Youngs will start against the All Blacks, with Lee Dickson offering cover from the bench.

England head coach Stuart Lancaster was adamant there had to be no doubts over Care's fitness for him to be selected, and he is confident Youngs will prove a capable replacement.

Lancaster said: "Danny is getting there but we won't take any risks and we need every player to be 100 per cent.

"Ben Youngs is one of our most experienced players - he has played against the All Blacks three times and is raring to go.

"Lee has known all week that he could be featuring so we managed his preparation accordingly."

Youngs is relishing the big occasion but had sympathy for Care.

"It's a shame for Danny as I know he has worked hard to be fit for the game," Youngs said.

"But it's a great to be starting against New Zealand at Eden Park and I know with four scrum halves in the squad there is a massive amount of competition for me to perform for the team and be at the top of my game."