England Saxons’ tournament captain Luke Narraway ruled out of Churchill Cup – Rugby news
England Saxons head coach, Stuart Lancaster, has confirmed that the appointed captain for the Churchill Cup, Luke Narraway, will no longer be part of the Saxons in their remaining matches of the Churchill Cup. Lancaster made
the announcement on Wednesday June 8, as he confirmed that the number eight Luke Narraway will miss the remaining matches of the Saxons because of a lower back injury. The Gloucester Rugby’s number eight missed the Saxons first match of the tournament against
the USA Eagles on June 4 at Franklin’s Gardens, Northampton.
Lancaster has termed the injury to their star number eight as a major blow. He said, “It's a shame to lose him, as he's an important part of our squad and has been in good form.”
Saxons handed over a thumping defeat of 87 – 8 to the Eagles to begin their title defence in style. However, Narraway was in the audience as he saw his side score a massive 12 tries in the game against the Churchill Cup debutants.
In Narraway’s absence, Leicester Tigers’ Jordan Crane played as number eight and led the team. It is likely that he will continue to lead the Saxons in their remaining matches.
Lancaster has expressed his satisfaction over the performance of Crane in the match. He expects that he will continue to deliver the same level of performance in their remaining matches. He said, “We are confident we've got a good replacement in Jordan Crane,
who led the side well against the USA.”
England Saxons didn’t announce any replacements for the injured skipper and would likely stick to the original 24-man squad announced for the Churchill Cup on May 30.
Lancaster confirmed that Luke Narraway had returned to Gloucester for his rehabilitation. He further added that the Saxons medical team will also be looking after the rehabilitation of Narraway.
Commenting on the seriousness of the Injury, Lancaster has termed the injury as not critical and expects Narraway to recover soon. He said, “The problem should settle down pretty quickly.”
Saxons will play their second pool match against Tonga at Molesey Road, Esher on June 12, followed by their cup match on June 18 at Worcester.
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