Strettle injury blow for England

England wing David Strettle’s World Cup hopes hang in the balance after he broke a metatarsal bone in his left foot during training.

The injury happened during an open running element of the session, and no contact was involved.

England head coach Brian Ashton said: “I am obviously sorry to hear about David’s injury and I wish him a speedy recovery.

“I won’t make any decisions about a possible replacement until I receive a full briefing on the consultation tomorrow morning.”

Ashton has already ruled uncapped Bristol number eight Dan Ward-Smith out of his World Cup plans after he failed to recover in time from a knee injury.

Centre Mike Tindall (leg) could also miss the final World Cup squad cut – a decision could be made tomorrow – while Mark Cueto (groin), Tom Rees (hamstring) and Peter Richards (back) are also currently battling injuries.

Wing Ben Cohen and prop Julian White, meanwhile, both made themselves unavailable for the World Cup during the past few months for personal reasons.

Ashton will name his 30-man squad next Tuesday.