England vs Australia: Thomas Waldrom called up to training squad with Billy Vunipola ruled out of Wallabies clash with concussion
England will be without the Saracens No 8 for their final autumn international after he suffered a blow to the head in the defeat to Northampton
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.England number eight Billy Vunipola has been replaced by Thomas Waldrom in the squad preparing for Saturday's QBE International against Australia because of concussion.
Vunipola took a blow to the head in Saracens' 31-24 Aviva Premiership defeat by Northampton on Sunday and has been ruled out of contention against the Wallabies.
The number eight was dropped for the 28-9 victory over Samoa at Twickenham - Ben Morgan started in his place - and was unlikely to figure in the climax to the autumn.
"Billy will undergo the graduated return to play protocol at his club," read a statement released by England.
While Waldrom is not expected to feature against Australia, his inclusion among the 34 players called up to England's Pennyhill Park training camp is reward for the strong form shown for second-placed Exeter.
Fly-half Stephen Myler is in the squad after recovering from a hamstring strain, while his Saints team-mate Courtney Lawes is being treated for a knee injury that could sideline him for the visit of the Wallabies.
If Lawes fails to recover in time, Dave Attwood and George Kruis will start with Graham Kitchener offering cover from the bench.
Head coach Stuart Lancaster names his match-day 23 on Tuesday evening and has already stated he will keep changes to a minimum.
Blindside flanker James Haskell had a quiet game against Samoa so could make way for Tom Wood when Lancaster announces the starting XV on Thursday morning, but the most intriguing selection will be at inside centre.
George Ford's superb full debut demands his retention against the Wallabies, leaving Owen Farrell to battle it out with Billy Twelvetrees and Kyle Eastmond for the number 12 jersey.
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments