Martyn Wood on his way home

Martyn Wood’s World Cup adventure officially ended today – after just 63 hours in Australia.

The Bath scrum-half flew back to Britain following his brief stint Down Under, providing precautionary injury cover for Matt Dawson and Kyran Bracken.

Dawson and Bracken began the week troubled by injuries, with England boss Clive Woodward initially rating Dawson only a 50-50 chance to face Pool C rivals South Africa at Subiaco Oval on Saturday.

But both players have made excellent progress under the watchful eye of England’s medical staff, and with Gloucester No 9 Andy Gomarsall also in the World Cup squad, Wood’s presence is no longer required.

Dawson will start against the Springboks, while Bracken has been named on the bench.

“I would like to thank Bath and Martyn for their total support over the last few days,” said Woodward.

Wood, who has won two England caps, arrived in Perth during the early hours of Tuesday morning, local time.

He was summoned by Woodward as England took stock of their injuries following the 84-6 victory over Georgia, and flew out from London at just five hours’ notice.

Wood did not officially join the World Cup squad, and as a result, could not train with them or stay in the same hotel under tournament rules.

He is due to arrive back in England early on Friday morning, UK time, and could even feature in the Zurich Premiership clash between Bath and Saracens on Sunday.

Bath are currently four points clear at the Premiership summit, with Wood’s impressive form proving a major factor behind their resurgence.