Wales dealt blow ahead of England clash as flanker released from Six Nations squad
Wales going over for James Botham's try against Scotland in Six Nations.
Wales have been struck by an injury setback ahead of their Six Nations clash with England at Twickenham on Saturday after flanker James Botham was ruled out.
Botham, the grandson of cricket legend Ian, has been released from the squad.
The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) confirmed that the back-row sustained a knee injury during last week’s 27-26 loss against Scotland at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.
Seb Davies added
Cardiff team-mate Seb Davies has been called into the group to replace Botham, while experienced Harlequins tighthead prop Dillon Lewis has also been added to the squad.
“James Botham has been released from the squad due to a knee injury picked up during Wales‘ 26-27 defeat to Scotland on Saturday,” said the WRU in a statement on Tuesday.
“He will continue his rehabilitation back at his club.”
Botham went over for Wales’ opening try during a thrilling second-half effort against the Scots that saw the hosts fight back to within a point after trailing 27-0 at one stage.
🏴 Alex Mann earned his first senior cap from the bench and got his first try!
👊 An incredible achievement. Llongyfarchiadau Alex!#SixNationsRugby | @Cardiff_Rugby | @Aberdare_RFC pic.twitter.com/8yIu8nyGSj
— Welsh Rugby Union 🏴 (@WelshRugbyUnion) February 5, 2024
Botham’s Cardiff team-mate Alex Mann, who also touched down in the Cardiff loss, replaced him on his Test debut and now looks likely to make a start against England.
Botham’s injury adds to Wales head coach Warren Gatland’s worries in the back-row, with World Cup co-captain Jac Morgan and Taulupe Faletau missing the tournament.
Lewis called in
Tighthead prop Lewis, who has won 54 caps for his country, was a surprise omission from Gatland’s original Six Nations squad announced before the 2024 Championship.
He is now the fourth tighthead prop in the Wales squad, joining Leon Brown, who started against Scotland, Keiron Assiratti and uncapped Bath front-rower Archie Griffin.
Wales will be determined to build on their second-half performance against the Scots as they look to cause a shock against the English, who beat Italy in their opening game.