Veteran Shaw is still learning his trade

Even though he made his international debut in 1996, England lock Simon Shaw says he is still learning in a bid to keep up with the modern game.

"I learn something new every time I train because rugby is constantly evolving," the 68-cap veteran said.

"Rugby is like a sponge. It's constantly soaking up knowledge acquired from other sports and other fields. Other sports tend to stay the same but rugby is ever developing."

Shaw made his first international appearance against Italy and his 15 years' service marks England's longest international career.

While he said he is proud to be the third oldest player at the 2011 Rugby World Cup, he was hoping his 38th birthday on Thursday would go unnoticed.

"I've been trying to keep it on the quiet because I didn't want a big fuss," he said.

"But on the flight over they flashed it up on the TV screen and they brought me a piece of cake with a candle in it and some air hostesses sang happy birthday so everyone on the whole plane knew."

Changed role

Shaw was an unused squad member at the Rugby World Cup 2003 and while he started six matches for England at the 2007 tournament, he says he has found a new role in the team this time around.

"I seem to have carved a position out for myself on the bench. Then I get 20 minutes to run around like a lunatic," he said.

"It's a bit of a double-edged sword though because I'm keeping the coaches happy playing a role but I'm not just here to back other guys up."

Some of his main competition for a starting spot is Courtney Lawes, 16 years his junior, and Shaw won't be imparting any advice to his teammate anytime soon.

"I've never been one to tell other guys how to play. Plus, what am I going to say? Telling them things I learned from playing 10 years ago is completely irrelevant."