England's rugby union team has been dealt a significant injury blow just days before their crucial Six Nations Championship opener against Wales. Star winger Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, who was poised to start on the right wing, has been ruled out of the match after sustaining a leg muscle injury during training on Thursday.
Devastating Setback for Returning Star
The injury represents a particularly cruel twist for Feyi-Waboso, who missed the entirety of last year's Six Nations tournament due to a persistent shoulder problem. The 23-year-old Exeter Chiefs player had fought his way back to full fitness and was in exceptional form, having started all four of England's international fixtures during the November test series.
During that successful autumn campaign, Feyi-Waboso demonstrated his attacking prowess by scoring crucial tries against both Fiji and Argentina. His contributions helped extend England's impressive winning streak to eleven consecutive matches, establishing him as a key component of Steve Borthwick's attacking strategy.
Roebuck Steps Into the Breach
In response to this unexpected setback, head coach Steve Borthwick has turned to Tom Roebuck as Feyi-Waboso's immediate replacement. Roebuck, who enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2025, will now slot into the back three alongside established stars Henry Arundell and Freddie Steward.
This selection represents a remarkable turnaround for Roebuck, who had initially been omitted from the matchday squad when it was announced on Monday. At that time, Borthwick and his medical team had determined that the winger was not quite ready to return from his own toe injury. However, subsequent assessments have confirmed his fitness to step into the void created by Feyi-Waboso's absence.
This will mark Roebuck's first international appearance since he started on the wing against the All Blacks last November, providing England with an experienced replacement despite the unfortunate circumstances surrounding his recall.
Additional Selection Developments
The team news reveals further strategic adjustments beyond the forced change on the wing. Regular captain Maro Itoje will begin the match against Wales from the substitutes' bench, with hooker Jamie George assuming the captaincy duties for the starting fifteen.
This decision suggests Borthwick is implementing a specific tactical approach for the Welsh encounter, potentially preserving Itoje's impact for the latter stages of what promises to be a physically demanding contest.
The loss of Feyi-Waboso undoubtedly weakens England's attacking options against a Welsh side eager to start their Six Nations campaign positively. His combination of pace, power, and proven try-scoring ability will be sorely missed as England seek to maintain their winning momentum in one of rugby's most historic rivalries.
