Launchbery out of autumn Tests

– England lock Joe Launchbury will miss the autumn Tests after undergoing knee surgery, Premiership side Wasps announced yesterday.

Launchbury, who has won 54 caps, will be sidelined for 10 to 12 weeks and will be absent for England’s matches against South Africa, New Zealand, Japan and Australia next month.

Launchbury, 27, suffered the injury during Wasps’ Premiership victory over Leicester last month.

England head coach Eddie Jones is due to name his Test squad next week, with the Springbok Test taking place at Twickenham on November 3.

The injury list also includes Anthony Watson, Sam Simmonds and Ellis Genge. –

London