Saracens dealt hammer blow ahead of Champions Cup tie as in-form back-row suffers season-ending injury

Saracens have been dealt a major blow ahead of their Investec Champions Cup round of 16 clash with Bordeaux-Begles after back-row Andy Christie was ruled out.

Not only will the in-form player miss this Saturday’s pivotal showdown in France, the all-action openside flanker has been sidelined for the remainder of the season.

It has been confirmed that Christie, who has impressed for Saracens this campaign, broke his arm in the club’s recent Premiership meeting against Northampton.

Blow for Saracens

The news will no doubt hit Sarries fans hard and is a massive blow going into their knockout clash at Bordeaux, who boast plenty of France international talents.

“Andy Christie suffered a break in his arm during the match against Northampton Saints on Friday night,” read a statement on the English side’s official website.

“It will require an operation and is expected to keep him out for around 12 weeks.

“We’re all behind you and wish you a speedy recovery, Andy!”

💫 INJURY UPDATE: Saracens flanker Andy Christie will miss the next 12 weeks after breaking his arm against Northampton.

The Scotland international will have surgery & miss the rest of the season.

Huge blow, been one of the best players in the league this year.#GallagherPrem

— Tight Five Rugby (@TightFive_Rugby) April 2, 2024

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Christie’s club form was recognised at Test level during the 2024 Six Nations, where he featured for Scotland and started their latter games against Italy and Ireland.

While he’s been ruled out “for around 12 weeks” after the required surgery, he could be fit to participate in Scotland’s summer tour, which will take them to the Americas.

First game on July 6

Scotland’s mid-year fixtures kick off versus Canada on July 6 and also features internationals against the United States, Chile and Uruguay over the ensuing weeks.

It remains to be seen whether Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend will risk the 25-year-old on the tour or allow him to fully recuperate to avoid any further setbacks.

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