Share

England wing Nowell's RWC hopes in the balance

London - England wing Jack Nowell's hopes of making the Rugby World Cup are "touch and go" according to his director of rugby at Exeter Rob Baxter.

The 26-year-old, who has 13 tries to his credit in 35 Tests, is battling to be fit for the sport's global showpiece after suffering a serious ankle injury in the Premiership final defeat to Saracens in June.

Despite the injury Eddie Jones named him in the England squad for the World Cup in Japan -- their first match is against Tonga on September 22.

"I think he's going to be touch and go for involvement in the World Cup," Baxter told BBC Radio.

"But let's cross our fingers and hope that he can come through."

There was more encouraging news for Jones with prop Mako Vunipola.

The injury-prone Saracens front row forward, who was returning to action after tearing a hamstring in the European Champions Cup win over Leinster in May, had to go off 17 minutes after replacing Joe Marler in the 57-15 thrashing of Ireland last Saturday.

"Mako Vunipola has a small tear of scar tissue which will require approximately 10 days of rehabilitation," read a statement from the Rugby Football Union (RFU).

"Ben Moon will join up with the squad as a temporary replacement to train in Treviso."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE