England have suffered a major blow ahead of their Six Nations opener against Wales on Saturday, with Immanuel Feyi-Waboso ruled out due to a hamstring injury sustained in training on Thursday. The Exeter wing's absence has prompted a surprise recall for Tom Roebuck, who will make his first appearance since a toe injury in November.
England assistant coach Tom Harrison confirmed the setback: 'Manny pulled out of training in the last 60 seconds and unfortunately won't be available this weekend. He sustained a pulled muscle in the leg area. Does it disrupt some plans? Yes it does because it's changing a player.' The extent of the injury is still being assessed, and it remains unclear if Feyi-Waboso will feature at all in the tournament.
Roebuck, initially omitted from the matchday squad with head coach Steve Borthwick suggesting he was 'a week or so' from full fitness, has been chosen over Elliot Daly. Harrison added: 'In an ideal world, we'd have given him an extra week but the world isn't ideal as we know. He trained fully yesterday and he's been exceptional around the squad.'
Feyi-Waboso's absence is a significant setback given his fine form this season, having started all four autumn Tests and scored two tries in England's 100% winning campaign. The 23-year-old, who represented Wales Under-18s before switching allegiance, has yet to face Saturday's opponents. England back-rower Sam Underhill expressed sympathy: 'We're gutted for him. He's a very emotionally resilient guy... no doubt he'll be back better for it.'
Despite the disruption, England are favourites to extend their winning run to 12 matches, while Wales are on a Six Nations losing streak dating back to 2023. However, captain Jamie George expects a fierce contest: 'It's hostile. There's confrontation. They are tough games... That's why they are great games to be part of.'
