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George North a major doubt for Six Nations opener

By Peteso Cannon
George North to miss Wales opening match of the 6 Nations

George North sustained an injury to his knee during Saints’ defeat to Harlequins on Saturday at Twickenham Stadium which will require up to four weeks rehabilitation.

Making the winger a major doubt for Wales' opening clash against Scotland on the 3rd of February in Cardiff.

Saints Technical Coaching Consultant Alan Gaffney commented, “while it’s disappointing that George will be missing ahead of Saturday’s game, this injury means an opportunity for another player in the squad to step up to the plate."

"I’m sure George will be diligent in his rehab and we all wish him a swift recovery.”

The wing had made six appearances for the club so far this season before suffering an injury to his posterior cruciate ligament requiring six to eight weeks rehabilitation.

North had initially targeted the Club’s Aviva Premiership clash with Exeter Chiefs on Saturday 23 December for his return, however, this was delayed until last weekend against Harlequins.

George North's stint at Northampton Saints has been described as "like having a Ferrari in your garage but you can't find the key" by former team manager Lennie Newman.

North is to leave Northampton at the end of the season and return to Wales, having signed a National Dual Contract from the 2018-19 campaign but is still unclear to which Welsh region he will go.

Though the wing has scored 26 tries in 54 Premiership appearances, his time with the Saints has been hampered by injuries and concussions.