In a setback for England’s Six Nations aspirations, Manu Tuilagi, the formidable 32-year-old centre, is poised to be sidelined at the commencement of the tournament due to a groin injury.
Despite encountering various fitness challenges throughout his career, Tuilagi remains eager to contribute to international rugby under the guidance of national head coach Steve Borthwick, having featured in the World Cup in France earlier this year.
The injury occurred during Sale’s victory over Saracens last Friday, casting uncertainty over Tuilagi’s immediate participation in the upcoming Six Nations campaign.
‘Manu has pulled his groin and doesn’t need an operation,’ said Sanderson. ‘We think he will be back during the Six Nations but not for the first week.’
The youngest of six brothers in the Samoan rugby dynasty to have played for Leicester Tigers, Manu Tuilagi qualified for England on three years’ residency and wasted no time in making an indelible impression.
Manu rose through the England age group ranks, playing for the U16 and U18 teams. Four of his older siblings, Fereti (Freddie), Henry, Alesana (Alex) and Anitelea (Andy) have represented Samoa but Manu’s allegiance lies with England.
He became England’s youngest RWC player at 20 years and 115 days against Argentina, being 15 days younger than Jonny Wilkinson, who set the record in 1999. Injury robbed him of
RUGBY QUIZ:
NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It’s a toss of a coin for me… and it’s come down in Folau’s favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”