Jones facing anxious wait over Vunipola

ENGLAND are nervously awaiting the full prognosis of the ankle injury sustained by Billy Vunipola against Argentina, writes Will Macpherson. The key No8, who did not appear for the second half of the 39-10 victory, underwent a scan today and appears very unlikely to face France on Saturday.

Both teams have already secured qualification for the quarter-finals, so England will not risk players. Eddie Jones has also suggested he could rotate his squad.

Assistant coach Neal Hatley said: “We will have a clearer picture tomorrow regarding Billy and then make a firm diagnosis.”

If Vunipola was unavailable, Tom Curry — who filled in at No8 on Saturday — and Mark Wilson would be the main contenders to replace him.

Hatley said England have enough ball carriers to cover Vunipola (left) if he does miss out. His brother, Mako, has returned to fitness after a hamstring injury.

“We plan for all eventualities and there are people to pick up the slack when Mako and Billy don’t play,” said Hatley.

Joe Marler also sat out full training today, having looked in discomfort when being substituted in the second half against Argentina.