Four stars facing race to be fit for Rugby World Cup 2019
Saracens Mako Vunipola during the Champions Cup Final at St James' Park, Newcastle.
The 2019 Rugby World Cup is just over two months away and numerous teams are sweating on the fitness of some of their most influential players.
The six-week long tournament gets underway in Japan on September 20, giving those nations some breathing space before they finalise their squads.
Read on as we look at some of the players struggling to be fit to take part in the tournament.
Injury prone Williams a big doubt for the All Blacks
Sonny Bill Williams has played just 51 Tests for New Zealand since making his debut back in 2010, with injuries costing him many more appearances.
He played a key role off the bench as the Kiwis won the last two World Cups, but a hamstring problem could keep him out of the tournament this time around.
The 33-year-old has really struggled for fitness over the past couple of years and may be the odd man out in midfield when the Kiwis announce their squad.
England sweating on Vunipola
Mako Vunipola faces a race against time to prove his fitness for England’s pursuit of the World Cup this autumn.
The Saracens star had an operation after tearing his hamstring in the Champions Cup final back in May and is major doubt for the tournament.
Australia star steps up rehab
David Pocock has been an inspirational figure for Australia, but a calf injury could keep him on the sidelines during the World Cup.
Pocock was left out of Australia’s 34-man squad to contest the upcoming Rugby Championship, although he will travel to South Africa to continue his rehab.
However, the 31-year-old’s absence opens the door for other players to impress in his position and head coach Michael Cheika may decide not to risk taking him to Japan.
Jenkins’ return still on the cards
Ellis Jenkins is on course to play at the World Cup despite undergoing another operation on the knee he injured against South Africa back in November.
Jenkins has had a second procedure to help his recovery and the Wales camp are optimistic that he will be available for selection.
The 26-year-old was in sparkling form before his injury and Wales’ chances of success at the World Cup would be boosted if Jenkins was in the squad.