England's Six Nations campaign faces a setback as the team grapples with another injury crisis, with the absence of Immanuel Feyi-Waboso looming large. The Exeter Chiefs winger, initially named in the starting lineup to face Wales, suffered a hamstring injury during training, forcing him to withdraw and be replaced by Tom Roebuck. This injury marks a continuation of Feyi-Waboso's recent struggles with injuries, having missed the second half of last season due to a shoulder issue and Exeter's opening PREM Rugby Cup fixtures this season with another hamstring problem.
Head coach Steve Borthwick expressed his concerns, stating, 'Manny looks like he will be out for a number of weeks.' The exact duration of the injury remains uncertain, as Borthwick awaits specialist opinions. Despite this setback, England's prospects for the Six Nations remain uncertain, but the team may receive a boost with the potential returns of key backs Ollie Lawrence and Fin Smith for their upcoming match at Murrayfield.
Lawrence, who trained positively at the end of last week and ran the day before, is expected to be available. Smith, who participated in full training last week and appeared in great condition, is also anticipated to join the squad. However, the team's injury woes extend beyond Feyi-Waboso, with Ellis Genge being substituted at halftime during England's 48-7 win over Wales due to a minor knock. This result is particularly significant given the current injury crisis at prop, with Fin Baxter also sidelined. Borthwick assured that Genge's withdrawal was precautionary, and he is expected to be available for the next match.
