The prop situation for England as they approach the Six Nations has worsened with the announcement that Fin Baxter requires foot surgery.
Baxter was scheduled to head to Girona for the squad’s pre-tournament training camp after being named among five players who were set to undergo rehabilitation for injuries, hoping to recover in time for the initial rounds.
However, England’s second-choice loosehead behind Ellis Genge now seems unlikely to contribute to his team’s title pursuit, depriving head coach Steve Borthwick of a third experienced prop. A timeline for his return has not yet been provided.
Senior tighthead Will Stuart has already been ruled out for the entire Six Nations due to a ruptured Achilles, while Asher Opoku-Fordjour is also unavailable for the tournament following shoulder surgery.
Uncapped players Billy Sela and Emmanuel Iyogun were included in Borthwick’s 36-man squad for the Championship last week to address the gaps in a significant challenge to England’s front row depth.
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Ben Curry was also listed among the rehabilitating players, but the Sale flanker, who missed the autumn series due to hamstring surgery, will now continue his recovery with his club.
In-form Harlequins back row Jack Kenningham has been added to England’s training squad for the journey to Spain.
England’s Six Nations campaign begins against Wales at Allianz Stadium on Feb. 7, with Borthwick’s team regarded as strong contenders to secure their first title since 2020.
