In the realm of rugby injuries, there are certain players who seem to bear a heavier toll than others, and one individual who exemplifies this phenomenon is none other than the formidable Manu Tuilagi.
As fate would have it, even during his recent World Cup campaign, Tuilagi wasn’t spared from the occasional physical setback.
In the crucible of competition, he grappled with adversity as he suffered a double broken hand, first in a pool stage clash against Samoa and later in the third/fourth place playoff against Argentina.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Sale Director of Rugby Alex Sanderson said:
“Manu’s got a plate in his hand from a fracture from the World Cup. He is going to be out for four to six weeks. Knowing Manu, it will be three to five,” said Sanderson
“He broke it against Samoa and then broke it again in the third place play-off. It is just collateral damage from playing in the World Cup.
“I asked him: ‘How was it Manu? Are you hanging up your international boots?’ He was like: ‘You will have to put me down physically, lethally inject me, to stop me playing international rugby’. He is loving it at the moment.”
Reports suggest that Manu won’t feature for England during the 2024 Six Nations.
30 best rugby union players in the world have been ranked, Owen Farrell 29th
#30. Dan Sheehan (Ireland)
A rising Irish hooker known for his powerful scrummaging and dynamic play in open field. Sheehan’s agility and tackling prowess make him a vital asset in set pieces and loose play alike, hinting at a promising future in international rugby
#29. Owen Farrell (England)
England’s steadfast captain and fly-half, Farrell’s tactical brilliance and accurate kicking guide his team’s gameplay. Renowned for his leadership, his defensive grit and ability to control the game’s pace make him a linchpin in England’s rugby strategy.
Wales Online wrote: “The 31-year-old has been in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons recently but is a player you’d rather play with than against. Farrell is a natural leader of men, and will play a crucial role if England are to drag themselves out of the rut they find themselves in.”
#28. Thibaud Flament (France)
A versatile lock for France, Flament’s towering presence in the lineout and ferocious work rate define his style. With his strong carrying and breakdown skills, he is a force to be reckoned with in both set-piece dominance and open-field encounters.
#27. Shannon Frizell (New Zealand)
Frizzell’s imposing physique and aggressive ball-carrying mark him as a formidable All Black flanker. His offloading ability, coupled with his defensive prowess, cements his position as a player who consistently makes his presence felt on the field.
#26. Steven Kitshoff (South Africa)
An anchor of the Springboks’ scrum, Kitshoff’s experience and technical expertise are unmatched. His exceptional work rate and relentless tackling contribute to his reputation as a reliable front-row stalwart, key to South Africa’s forward dominance.