Tuilagi blow as he’s ruled out of Tests
MANU TUILAGI has added to England’s injury crisis, with Leicester revealing last night the Lions centre will not be available for the autumn Tests. The 25-year-old is struggling with a recurrence of the groin problem which has hampered him for years. He has missed his club’s last three matches and, after initial optimism he would not be ruled out for long, it has now emerged he is unlikely to return until late November. Tigers director of rugby Richard Cockerill said: ‘He’ll be back on the field within six to eight weeks. We are going to sort out the player. We want him fit. His groin’s not right and we’re going to get it right. He’s running. It’s nowhere near as severe as before.’ England coach Eddie Jones was already without leading openside flanker James Haskell for November, while Owen Farrell and George Kruis are yet to play this season. Both have back problems, as has captain Dylan Hartley, who was absent again as Northampton lost to Wasps. Jonathan Joseph was withdrawn by Bath yesterday with a thigh injury, while Harlequins pair Danny Care and Joe Marler were hurt in the win over Saracens.
SARACENS will aim to bounce back this week from the unfamiliar shock of losing, knowing they will have to do so without injured England fly-half Owen Farrell. The champions were beaten 17-10 by an inspired Harlequins and director of rugby Mark McCall revealed that Farrell would not be available to face Bristol at Ashton Gate on Friday. ‘It would be madness to risk him,’ said McCall. Quins director of rugby John Kingston was thrilled with his team and said: ‘ The all- round performance was exceptional.’
JIM MALLINDER made a case for his Northampton captain, Tom Wood, to be recalled by England, after the Saints suffered a 20-15 defeat at home to Wasps. National coach Eddie Jones is seeking an openside flanker. Northampton’s Teimana Harrison a contender, but Mallinder said: ‘Harrison could be (involved), but Tom Wood’s never let us down. I’m surprised his name’s not being mentioned.’
DAVID HuMPHREYS had to defend resting key players as Gloucester crashed to defeat at home to Newcastle. Asked if he regretted rotating his squad, he said: ‘Not at all. We all talk about the squad system and have to make sure they are able to perform.’ The Falcons last won away from home in the league two years ago and Dean Richards said: ‘We’re combative and competitive.’
THERE was bedlam at Sixways as Worcester trailed Sale 17-5 but managed to surge into a 31-17 lead, before the visitors fought back to snatch a 34-34 draw. Will Addison touched down twice for the Sharks, as did Jamie Shillcock for hosts Worcester.