Statement: England confirms late change to their XV for Wales clash

The 23-year-old pulled up near the end of England’s final session, prompting the medical team to take a cautious approach. Speaking on Rugby Union Weekly, defence coach Richard Wigglesworth explained the decision-making behind the late withdrawal.

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“Manny just pulled up at the very end,” Wigglesworth said. “His leg’s sore. There was nothing specific and he walked off, there was nothing much to it, but he did miss the last 60 seconds of training so we’re just waiting to investigate that a little bit more.”

The setback comes at an unfortunate time for Feyi-Waboso, who has already experienced a stop-start international career despite his rapid rise. He was shortlisted for World Rugby’s Breakthrough Player of the Year in 2024 after a stunning campaign that included a hat-trick of tries against New Zealand, marking him out as one of England’s most destructive finishers.

That momentum was previously halted by a shoulder injury which ruled him out of last year’s Six Nations. He returned in an England A fixture against France, but his comeback was marred by a red card for a high tackle on Antoine Hastoy. A subsequent two-match ban saw him miss summer Tests against Argentina, though head coach Steve Borthwick retained him within the squad and later handed him a start against the United States.

Wigglesworth said the coaching group continue to be impressed by both the winger’s attitude and his physical edge.

“Manny is really, really keen to be as good as he can be,” he added. “If that’s your starting point, with the physical capabilities he has, then you’re going to go well. He is really coachable, takes feedback really well and he’s got incredible physical commitment in terms of how quick he runs into contact.”

In Feyi-Waboso’s absence, Tom Roebuck will start on the wing in Cardiff, as England look to overcome late disruption and begin their Six Nations campaign on solid footing. Further assessment will determine whether Feyi-Waboso can feature later in the championship.