Six Nations: Joe Launchbury handed England recall after Lewis Ludlam injury

Colin Newboult

08 Feb 2022 11:20 AM

Wasps' Kieran Brookes, Joe Launchbury and Brad Shields (left-right) appear dejected after losing the Heineken Champions Cup match at The Ricoh Arena, Coventry. Picture date: Saturday April 3, 2021.

England head coach Eddie Jones has brought Wasps lock Joe Launchbury back into the squad after Lewis Ludlam was forced to withdraw.

Ludlam was one of the Red Rose’s star performers during their 20-17 defeat to Scotland in the Six Nations on Saturday, but will miss this weekend’s clash with Italy.

The Northampton Saints back-row has picked up a rib injury and won’t be able to take to the field in Rome, but he should be available for the encounter with Wales, according to Jones.

Bolstering the second-row

England’s boss has therefore taken this opportunity to bolster his second-row options, with Launchbury handed a recall.

The 30-year-old suffered an ACL injury in April 2021 which ruled him out for nine months, but has recently returned and helped Wasps to a 27-26 victory over Exeter Chiefs in the Premiership.

He has earned 69 caps and is in contention to face the Azzurri on Sunday.

France v Ireland could be title defining says Eddie O’Sullivan

Meanwhile, former Ireland coach Eddie O’Sullivan admits this weekend’s encounter between Ireland and France will be a defining game in the context of the 2022 Six Nations.

Ireland continued their excellent form, comprehensively beating Wales 29-7 and taking their tally to nine wins on the bounce, while France beat Italy 37-10 in the opening round.

This is probably the crunch game of the tournament. I think these are the best two teams,” O’Sullivan told the BBC.

“Whoever wins this one will be eyeing up the championship for sure.”