"Nerve damage" - England forward stood down with immediate effect
Rugby NewsThursday, 25 September 2025 at 13:56
George Martin will miss England’s Autumn Internationals after Leicester Tigers confirmed the lock has shoulder nerve damage, ruling him out for at least the first half of the season.
The 24-year-old has not played since England’s 26-25 Six Nations victory over France in February, and Tigers head coach Geoff Parling has stressed there will be no rush to return him following surgery over the summer.
Despite his long spell out, Martin was one of 25 players to be handed an Enhanced EPS contract by Steve Borthwick last month – a clear show of faith from the England head coach.
?️ Geoff Parling on Martin’s return
“As with any nerve injuries, the timeframe on George’s availability is slightly unknown,” said newly appointed Tigers boss Geoff Parling. “But to give George the best chance to perform, we know it won’t be during the first half of this season.”
“As with any nerve injuries, the timeframe on George’s availability is slightly unknown,” said newly appointed Tigers boss Geoff Parling. “But to give George the best chance to perform, we know it won’t be during the first half of this season.”
?️ Steve Borthwick backs Martin
“George is a fantastic player and a valued member of the England squad. He approaches everything he does with professionalism and commitment, and there’s no doubt he’s bringing that same focus to his rehab. We look forward to seeing him back when the time is right.”
“George is a fantastic player and a valued member of the England squad. He approaches everything he does with professionalism and commitment, and there’s no doubt he’s bringing that same focus to his rehab. We look forward to seeing him back when the time is right.”
With Tigers missing one of their most physical forwards, and England planning ahead for a huge autumn campaign, both club and country will be hoping Martin’s road to recovery gathers pace towards the turn of the year.
“Henry Pollock starts” – Our predicted Lions XV for the All Blacks tour in 2029
Given the historic and current strength of the All Blacks, the 2029 series will likely be a bigger test than the understrength Wallabies outfit Farrell has dispatched this year. Whoever takes the reins as head coach will be under intense pressure to get selections right.
With that in mind, here’s our early prediction for the 2029 Lions Test XV.
15. Blair Kinghorn
Despite missing most of the 2025 tour through injury and Top 14 commitments, Kinghorn remains one of the most complete fullbacks available to the Lions. On form, he’s the best in the Home Nations, offering versatility and composure at the back.
At 28, he’ll be in excellent physical shape by 2029. Starting the final Test this weekend provides valuable experience. While Sale’s Joe Carpenter is a rising threat, Kinghorn’s proven Test-level pedigree keeps him ahead.
14. Tommy Freeman
Freeman was a nailed-on starter throughout the 2025 series — and for good reason. At 24, he’s still developing but already plays like a seasoned international. His size, power, and try-scoring instinct make him a nightmare for defenders.
By 2029, he’ll be at his peak and could be one of the standout figures in the Lions backline.
13. Ollie Lawrence
Lawrence missed the 2025 tour through injury but would have almost certainly travelled — and challenged for a starting spot. With Huw Jones likely past his best at 35 in 2029, Lawrence (who’ll be 29) has a golden opportunity to claim the 13 jersey.
If he regains his top form, he’ll be tough to leave out.
12. Sione Tuipulotu
Tuipulotu impressed during the 2025 season and was arguably unlucky to be benched in favour of Bundee Aki, despite being in better form. By 2029, he’ll be 32 and bring a wealth of experience.
His blend of physicality and skill, along with a calm head, will be vital against the All Blacks.
11. Mack Hansen
Injury kept Hansen out of the 2025 series, but if fit, he’ll be 31 in 2029 and still a major attacking threat. His flair, game intelligence, and unpredictability make him a fan favourite.
If Andy Farrell isn’t retained as coach, Hansen could be overlooked for a winger from another nation — but on ability alone, he’s hard to ignore.
10. Fin Smith
Smith is the standout young fly-half in English rugby and showed real quality during the 2025 series, even if opportunities were limited. His decision-making, game management and kicking are already top-tier.
By 2029, he could be the best No.10 available. Sam Prendergast might challenge him, but Smith currently looks the more complete package.
9. Alex Mitchell
Mitchell is in his prime at 28 and impressed during the 2025 tour. With few younger No.9s putting their hands up, he’s in a strong position to retain the jersey.
If his partnership with Fin Smith continues at Northampton Saints, that club connection could be a big plus for the Lions in 2029.
1. Andrew Porter
Porter had a strong 2025 campaign and remains a key figure in the front row. A year younger than Ellis Genge, his improving scrummaging and discipline could give him the edge in selection.
He looks better with every season.
2. Dan Sheehan
Arguably the standout player of the 2025 tour, Sheehan is still only 26. His dynamism, lineout accuracy and class around the field make him one of the easiest selections.
Barring injury or a dramatic dip in form, expect him to be starting in 2029.
3. Asher Opoku-Fordjour
A breakout year for Sale Sharks has put Opoku-Fordjour on the map. At just 21, he’s already among the top tightheads in the Premiership.
Strong in the scrum and dangerous in open play, he could be one of rugby’s biggest names by 2029 if his rise continues.
4. Maro Itoje
Itoje captained the Lions in 2025 and remains a central figure. He’ll be 34 in 2029, but his leadership, physicality and tour experience should keep him firmly in the mix.
No one matches his influence in the big moments.
5. George Martin
Injuries limited Martin’s involvement in 2025, but his long-term partnership with Itoje for England makes him a natural successor. He’ll be 28 in 2029 and hitting peak form.
His physicality and work rate will make him hard to ignore.
6. Tom Curry
Few players are more committed than Curry. Despite a tough run of injuries, he remains a ferocious tackler and tireless presence.
At 31, he should still be near his best — and a guaranteed starter if fit.
7. Henry Pollock
Pollock was the wildcard pick everyone wanted in 2025 — and he delivered. His rise has been rapid, and he plays with confidence and flair.
If he stays on course, he could be a global star in 2029. A game-changer in every sense.
8. Caelan Doris
Doris was tipped to captain the 2025 side before injury struck. That dream might only be delayed. He’s widely regarded as the best No.8 in the Home Nations and, at 30, will still be at the top of his game in 2029.
While Jack Conan performed well this year, Doris offers more across the board. There may be back-row reshuffles involving Jac Morgan or Pollock, but Doris remains the gold standard.
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- Jordie Barrett over Damian de Allende is far from being correct. The hype around Dupont is also overreaching, he's probably 4th in the world and has been since the 2023 WC. He also avoids certain matchups which is strange. The rest of the list is pretty good apart from minor subjective biases.JasonMarlow16-09-2026
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