England’s World Cup plans are taking more hits than a heavyweight boxer.
Kyle Sinckler’s got his own injury drama, leaving coach Steve Borthwick scratching his head, as revealed by our mates at The Guardian. The countdown to the Rugby World Cup is turning into a wild rollercoaster for the English lads.
Apparently, Sinckler’s nursing a pesky chest issue that’s KO’d his chances for the Fiji face-off this Saturday. But hold tight, England’s hoping he’ll be in fighting shape for the grand World Cup kickoff.
However, Sinckler’s not alone in the physio’s office – Elliot Daly’s nursing a sore knee, and Tom Curry’s dealing with a dodgy ankle. These lads gotta prove they’re up for the game against Argentina on September 9.
Check this out: Joe Heyes, the Leicester tighthead prop who missed the World Cup squad cut, was spotted sweating it out at training, showing the lengths they’re going to prep Sinckler. And Joe Cokanasiga’s in the spotlight too, thanks to doubts about Daly.
Wait, there’s more chaos: Borthwick confirmed that Anthony Watson’s nursing his wounds alongside Jack van Poortvliet, both bowing out due to injuries.
Plus, Henry Arundell’s got a cranky back and George Martin’s nursing a sore knee. And guess what? Owen Farrell and Billy Vunipola are benched due to suspension.
England’s World Cup dreams are in a real spot of bother, and Sinckler’s setback is just another jab to the gut for Borthwick.
Drop him now” – Sir Clive Woodward wants three England players dropped
Writing in his column for the Mail Online, Woodward stated: “It’s time for Steve Borthwick to bite the bullet and tear apart England’s World Cup squad after poor warm-up displays and bans.”
Here are the changes to the squad he suggested.
#1. Zach Mercer replacing Billy Vunipola
Woodward wrote: “Given his ban, Vunipola should not go to the World Cup.
“He is the only out-and-out No 8 in the squad and England can’t face Argentina with a non-specialist there. Ben Earl and Lewis Ludlam could do a job, but when a better No 8 is available you have to play him. I’d take out Vunipola and bring in Zach Mercer.
“Vunipola is not the player of four years ago. Mercer would bring some much-needed pace to the team. Vunipola can rejoin the squad if there are injuries in France, which is almost a given.”