Two omitted from England squad while Billy Vunipola undergoes surgery
Beno Obano and Will Joseph are the latest players to see their Rugby World Cup dreams dashed after Steve Borthwick named an updated 36-man training squad.
Obano and Joseph were the only players omitted from the group which was selected last week as individuals from Premiership finalists Saracens and Sale Sharks remain unavailable.
They are on a mandatory rest period following their excursions during the domestic season, which saw Sarries edge Sale 35-25 in the showpiece event.
Vunipola’s knee issue
An update was also given on number eight Billy Vunipola, who has remained with the squad since the initial group was named.
Vunipola has been nursing a knee injury and underwent a “minor surgical procedure” on Friday, according to a statement released by England Rugby.
“The medical team are positive about my prospects, and I understand exactly what needs to be done over the next few weeks,” the back-row added.
The number eight should be available for World Cup selection but in the meantime will continue his rehabilitation alongside Ollie Chessum, Luke Cowan-Dickie, Ollie Lawrence and Jack Walker.
“I’m pleased with the progress that’s been made over the last two weeks and we look forward to another productive training camp at the Lensbury,” head coach Borthwick said.
“There’s still a long way to go until we are ready for a World Cup, but each day we take another step forward.”
England’s 36-man World Cup training squad
Forwards: Jamie Blamire, Dan Cole, Alex Dombrandt, Tom Dunn, Charlie Ewels, Ellis Genge, Joe Heyes, Ted Hill, Courtney Lawes, Lewis Ludlam, Joe Marler, George Martin, Zach Mercer, Tom Pearson, Val Rapava-Ruskin, David Ribbans, Kyle Sinckler, Will Stuart, Sam Underhill
Backs: Henry Arundell, Danny Care, Joe Cokanasiga, Fraser Dingwall, Tommy Freeman, Joe Marchant, Jonny May, Alex Mitchell, Cadan Murley, Guy Porter, Henry Slade, Fin Smith, Marcus Smith, Freddie Steward, Jack van Poortvliet, Anthony Watson, Ben Youngs
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