England’s preparations for the upcoming Six Nations have been dealt a concerning blow, with experienced prop Jamie George suffering a hamstring injury that casts doubt over his participation in the prestigious tournament.
The 32-year-old Saracens stalwart limped out of his club’s 32-24 Champions Cup defeat to Castres on Sunday, sparking fears he may miss England’s campaign which begins in Dublin against Ireland on February 1st.
Jamie has hurt his hamstring. We’re not quite sure how serious it is at the moment.
– Mark McCall, Saracens Director of Rugby
The news will undoubtedly worry new England head coach Steve Borthwick, who had only days ago named George in his 36-man squad for the Six Nations. The experienced front-rower, with 69 England caps to his name, was expected to play a key role despite recently being replaced as captain by Maro Itoje.
England’s Injury Woes Mount
George’s hamstring problem adds to a growing injury list for England ahead of the annual Northern Hemisphere championship. Borthwick is already without:
- Immanuel Feyi‑Waboso – The promising young winger has been ruled out with a shoulder injury
- Sam Underhill – The hard-hitting flanker will miss the tournament due to an unspecified issue
- George Furbank – Northampton Saints’ fullback is another absentee, dealing a blow to England’s back three stocks
With the Six Nations opener in Dublin fast approaching, Borthwick will anxiously await further news on the severity of George’s injury. Even a minor hamstring strain would likely rule the dependable hooker out of the Ireland clash and leave England light on experience in the front row.
Spanish Inquisition for England Squad
As part of their preparations, England will spend next week in Girona, Spain at a warm weather training camp. Borthwick will hope the change of scenery and climate can help galvanize his depleted squad and instill some cohesion ahead of a daunting trip to face the Irish.
For George, the focus will be on diagnosis, recovery and rehab. If the injury proves less serious than first feared, an outside chance may remain for him to feature at some stage of the Six Nations. But hamstring problems can be notoriously slow to mend, often requiring up to 6 weeks on the sidelines.
Opportunity Knocks for England Hopefuls
While any extended absence for Jamie George would represent a significant setback for England, it may open the door for emerging talent to stake a claim. Borthwick’s squad contains two uncapped hookers in Tom Dunn and Jack Walker who will be chomping at the bit for an opportunity to impress.
With question marks also surrounding the fitness of Luke Cowan-Dickie, the Six Nations could provide a platform for a new face to emerge and make the England number 2 jersey their own. Dunn and Walker will need to grasp any chance that comes their way.
Borthwick Era Faces Early Test
The injury to Jamie George, hot on the heels of multiple other withdrawals, ensures Steve Borthwick’s tenure as England coach begins in challenging circumstances. How he adjusts to these early blows and galvanizes his available players will provide an early window into his stewardship of the national side.
English fans will hope Borthwick’s renowned planning and eye for detail can fashion a squad capable of challenging for Six Nations honors, even without some established stars. But the loss of a leader like George, with his experience, grit and set-piece prowess, would be keenly felt.
As the tournament opener in Dublin draws near, England’s treatment room will be a hive of activity. The nation will collectively cross its fingers that Jamie George can respond positively and thrust himself into contention for a place on the plane to Ireland. But as injuries bite, Borthwick’s best-laid plans face a stern examination before a ball has even been kicked.
