England Receive HUGE Fitness Boost Ahead Of 2nd Test With South Africa
Latest posts by Will Matthews (see all)
- Louis Rees-Zammit lands contract with huge NFL franchise - March 28, 2024
- Owen Farrell’s reported salary at Racing 92 is a surprising one - March 27, 2024
- Jordan Larmour on the Springbok he looks up to ahead of huge clash - March 27, 2024
He’s back.
Wasps second-row Joe Launchbury has been passed fit to start England’s second Test against South Africa after recovering from a calf problem.
Launchbury missed England’s opening Test defeat to the Springboks Ellis Park on Saturday, with Saracens youngster Nick Isiekwe starting alongside club teammate Maro Itoje in his place in the engine room.
Launchbury trained this morning for the first time since arriving in South Africa and is set to be drafted straight into the starting line-up.
“Joe Launchbury trained today and trained well,” said England forwards coach Steve Borthwick.
“He’s done a great job with his rehabilitation and is available for selection.”
Elsewhere Brad Shields is expected to earn his first start this weekend, with former captain Chris Robshaw in line to miss out.