England star George Furbank stood down with immediate effect

According to The Telegraph, the Northampton Saints full-back is set to miss Saturday's clash at Ellis Park after falling ill following England's captain's run on Friday.

Furbank had been in line to make his first Test start in nearly two years, but began suffering painful symptoms before being taken to hospital.

England have yet to confirm who will wear the No.15 shirt against the Springboks, although Marcus Smith appears the most obvious replacement.

Freddie Steward, the other specialist full-back in Steve Borthwick's squad, is currently dealing with an ankle injury.

The news is another devastating blow for Furbank following a nightmare run of injuries over the past 18 months.

The 29-year-old had made a major impression during the 2024 Six Nations and England's tour of New Zealand before breaking his arm later that year.

Recurring calf and knee problems followed, while a concussion ruled him out of the start of this year's Six Nations. He did not feature at all during the Championship.

Furbank's last Test start came against Japan in November 2024 and, according to the report, the latest setback is likely to rule him out of the remainder of the Nations Championship.

Speaking to the media on Thursday, Furbank admitted the past 18 months had been a major challenge.

“It was pretty tough to be honest,” he said.

“Just playing again felt a long way off at times to be honest. I was just incredibly grateful to get back playing, firstly for Saints and once I got a run there it was about trying to get back into the senior squad and trying to get a start for this team again.

“So now I have got that opportunity I guess it is about taking it and I just want to go out and enjoy being back in an England shirt.”

England are now facing a late reshuffle just hours before taking on the world champions in Johannesburg.

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