"Nasty injury" - Likely England captain Ellis Genge has been ruled out

Friday, 08 December 2023 at 14:40

byRugby Rucker

England Prop Set to Miss Action Ahead of 2024 Six Nations

Bristol and England prop Ellis Genge, 28, is bracing for an extended absence after sustaining a hamstring injury during training.

Despite the setback, a statement from the Bears reassured fans that Genge is anticipated to make a comeback "ahead of England's 2024 Six Nations campaign."

Having recently returned from the World Cup, Genge showcased his prowess by scoring tries in Bristol's last two Premiership outings.

With 58 England caps under his belt, the dynamic prop has been widely considered a frontrunner to take over the captaincy from Owen Farrell in the upcoming 2024 Six Nations.

As England kicks off their tournament on February 3 against Italy, Genge's recovery timeline will be closely monitored, with hopes high for his return before the pivotal campaign begins.

REVEALED: Every Premiership Rugby teams marquee player and their reported salary

RUCK delves into the salary details of each Gallagher Premiership club's marquee player, showcasing the earnings of these key figures.

Serving as the marquee player exempts them from their team's salary cap, set at £5 million.

Newcastle Falcons stand out as the sole club without a designated marquee player, opting for a strategic approach by trimming their playing budget to align with their financial objectives.

Bath:

Excluded player: Finn Russell

The Scottish magic maker, hailed as a million-pound sensation amid speculation of his switch from Racing 92 to the Premiership, is set to pocket around £750,000 annually as Bath's exclusive player. It's a handsome sum, no doubt about it.

Finn Russell of Bath Rugby during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Match between Bath Rugby and Newcastle Falcons at the Recreation Ground on 14 October 2023. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

Bristol Bears:

Possible excluded player: Kyle Sinckler

. Despite a potential reduction from his initial £475,000-per-year agreement, the tighthead prop seems to be thriving. There's reported interest from Top 14 clubs eying his services from 2024.

Kyle Sinckler of Bristol Bears during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Match between Bristol Bears and Bath Rugby at Ashton Gate on 10 September. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

Exeter Chiefs:

Likely excluded player: Henry Slade

s Exeter's only excluded player after Hogg's retirement, the centre's contract expires at the conclusion of the current season. Sources suggest he will carefully evaluate his options, leaving any potential further England involvement under Steve Borthwick uncertain.

Winning Penalty Kick from Henry Slade of Exeter Chiefs to win the game with the last kick of the game during the Gallagher Premiership match between Exeter Chiefs and Gloucester Rugby at Sandy Park, Exeter on 19th Nov 2023. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

Gloucester:

Likely excluded player: Zach Mercer

According to a source cited by The Telegraph, the final installment of Mercer's four-year deal has the potential to increase to as much as £475,000.

Harlequins:

Likely excluded player: Marcus Smith

Recognised for his exceptional playmaking abilities, Marcus Smith is a rising star in the world of rugby. The talented Harlequins player is expected to be a key figure as a likely excluded player, showcasing his prowess on the field.

Marcus Smith of Harlequins during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Match between Harlequins and Saracens at Twickenham Stoop, London on 18th November 2023. Photo: Frankie OKeeffe/PPAUK

Leicester Tigers:

Excluded player: Handre Pollard

Amidst a period of diminished player movement, the Tigers' choice to invest approximately £600,000 annually in Pollard set them apart from the rest of the league.

Leicester marks the latest chapter in Pollard's career, which commenced with the Bulls in Pretoria, included a stint in Japan, and a stop in Montpellier after potential interest from Bath did not materialize.

Handre Pollard of South Africa during the Autumn Nations Match between England and South Africa at Twickenham Stadium on 20 November 2021. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

Newcastle Falcons:

Excluded player: None

Northampton Saints:

Likely excluded player: Courtney Lawes

Lawes is anticipated to play a crucial role as a likely excluded player following his international retirement. Renowned for his tenacity and skill in the game, Lawes is a key asset for the Saints, earning approximately £500,000 per season

Courtney Lawes of England continues his recovery from injury during the England Rugby Training camp at the Honda England Rugby Performance Centre, Pennyhill Park on 30 Jan. 2023 Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

Sale Sharks:

Possible excluded player: Nic Schonert

With his strength in the scrum and versatility on the field, Schonert is a valuable asset for the Sharks.

Saracens:

Likely excluded players: Owen Farrell and Maro Itoje

With their international experience and leadership qualities, Farrell and Itoje play pivotal roles in shaping the success of Saracens on the rugby field. Both players reportedly earn between £750,000 and £800,000.

Owen Farrell of Saracens during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby match between Saracens and London Irish at the StoneX Stadium, Hendon, London on Sunday 23rd April 2023 | Photo: James Fearn/PPAUK.