England wait for McConnochie

Ruaridh McConnochie is a late doubt for England’s World Cup warm-up Test against Wales in Cardiff today because of muscle soreness.

McConnochie was due to make his international debut in the opening fixture of the build-up to Japan 2019 against Warren Gatland’s men last weekend but was withdrawn due to a hip problem.

The Bath wing, a sevens specialist who won a silver medal with Great Britain at the 2016 Olympics, is understood to be 50-50 to pull through.

“Ruaridh pulled up a bit sore today (Friday) so we’re not 100% sure how he’ll be,” head coach Eddie Jones said.

“It’s not the same injury. He’s just sore, so we’ll find out about it.”

If McConnochie fails his fitness test, either Anthony Watson or Jonny May will be drafted into the starting XV on the right wing.

Watson made his comeback from a serious Achilles injury in the 33-19 rout of Wales last Sunday and performed well, while May was scheduled to miss both instalments of the double-header.

The third wing option in England’s 31-man squad that will depart for Japan on September 8 is Jack Nowell, but an ankle issue means he will not be avail-able until the final warm-up against Italy.

Jones delivered better news on Mako Vunipola, the loosehead prop who is poised to return from a significant hamstring injury.

“Mako did a bit of extra work at the end of training today, a bit of contact work. A bit of defence work. He should get some time next weekend against Ireland,” Jones said.

Jones swatted aside the prospect of England potentially climbing to the top of the world rankings if they topple Wales.

“All we’re worried about is playing well and getting prepared for the World Cup,” Jones said.

Ruaridh McConnochie at training.