Rugby World Cup: England’s Mako Vunipola and Jack Nowell out of opening matches
Mako Vunipola along with also Jack Nowell will miss England’s first two games coach Eddie Jones has confirmed.
While Nowell is still stepping up his recovery from a foot injury, england prop Vunipola suffered a recurrence of a hamstring injury during the month’s 57-15 win over Ireland.
Neither guy featured in England’s 37-0 pummelling of Italy on Friday and following the St James’ Park battle, Jones admitted the set will play no part in England’s first two World Cup matches against Tonga and USA .
Asked if the set may be fit for England’s opener, Jones said:”Mako certainly won’t function but we feel he could possibly be right for match three or match four in the pool stage.
“Jack Nowell has obtained the past couple of days away so we’ve had to hold him back somewhat. He must be appropriate, again similar to Mako. Everyone else is in training.”
More to follow…