Ex-Wasps and current Saracens forward Billy Vunipola has been ruled out of this year’s World Cup.
The Australian-born number eight has suffered a knee ligament strain that will rule him out of the tournament.
The 22-year-old has been replaced by Harlequins number eight Nick Easter.
Easter, who is 37, has 52 test caps and was with England in their 2007 and 2011 World Cup campaigns.
Vunipola is expected to be ruled out for six weeks, courtesy of the injury he gained in England’s 25-28 loss to Wales.
Speaking to the BBC, England coach Stuart Lancaster said: “It’s so unfortunate for Billy – he’s worked really hard.
“He’s committed everything to the last three months but he is a young man with a bright future ahead of him and I know he’ll be an integral part of this team for years to come.”
When asked about Nick Easter, Lancaster said: “Nick was unlucky to miss out on final selection. He is a specialist number eight and an experienced player. We know he will make a big contribution.”
Billy Vunipola is a key player for England, his pure strength and brutality will please any side he plays for. His absence will reduce our squad’s physical strength for their remaining matches – notably the Wallabies.
England are hoping for a great World Cup this year, they really have a chance of getting far.
England host Australia at Twickenham on Saturday.
