Exeter positive over Jack Nowell’s World Cup participation

Exeter Chiefs director of rugby Rob Baxter says that England wing Jack Nowell should be fit for the World Cup, despite suffering a serious injury in the Premiership final.

The England and British Lions star was forced from the field midway through the second half against Saracens but has now undergone successful surgery on an ankle issue.

Nowell underwent initial scans on both his knee and ankle in the aftermath of the showpiece event, which ended in a 37-34 victory for the Londoners, who were able to add the Premiership title alongside that of their Champions Cup crown.

Since then, the Cornishman has been away on holiday with his family, after which he has returned to Exeter and underwent surgery on his ankle on Tuesday.

Although Baxter has not put a timescale on when he expects Nowell to be fully-fit again, he did offer a positive outlook, saying: “Jack’s had an operation on his ankle and at this stage we see no reason why it should jeopardise him being involved with England at the Rugby World Cup nor with us heading into the new season.”