Jack Nowell injury update does little to allay England fears

Jack Nowell is continuing to undergo assessment on the left ankle damaged in Exeter’s Gallagher Premiership final defeat by Saracens.

Nowell hobbled off 10 minutes before the end of a thrilling climax to the season at Twickenham on Saturday, and having had the injury scanned, he must undergo additional tests.

The 26-year-old full-back was superb until he was forced from the pitch, his elusive running and ability to break the tackle a repeated threat to Saracens.

He was used as a wing by England and, if fit, will be selected in Eddie Jones’ squad destined for this autumn’s World Cup.

“Jack has undergone a scan on his ankle, which at this stage needs further assessment before a decision is made as to ongoing treatment for him,” an Exeter statement read.

Saracens won the Gallagher Premiership after beating Exeter 37-34 in the final at Twickenham, but the injury to the England star marred proceedings.

Referee Wayne Barnes was quick to bring the action to halt after the Nowell appeared to roll awkwardly on his leg in the 69th minute of the match, before being attended to by medics.

The 26-year-old did manage to limp off unaided, though the extent of the injury is as yet unclear.

The British and Irish Lion appeared back on the pitch after full time, on crutches and in tears. It’s was a cruel blow for the England fullback, especially given the timing – just 10 minutes before the end of the season.

Nowell could not have made a greater statement to England head coach Eddie Jones during the seventy minutes he was on the field. He was at his slippery best whenever he had the ball in hand, as Saracens could not lay a hand on him.

PA/additional reporting RugbyPass

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