Sam Underhill: England flanker ruled out of autumn testing with shoulder problem | Rugby Union News

England and Bath striker Sam Underhill is set to be out for 12 weeks with a shoulder problem that requires surgery as the World Cup counts down to the year next in France continues to accelerate. England will face Argentina, Japan, New Zealand and South Africa in November

Flanker Sam Underhill is set to miss England’s Autumn Tests with a shoulder problem that requires surgery.

The Bath striker, who has won 29 caps, is expected to be out for 12 weeks.

And such an exit from the game would mean the 26-year-old would be unavailable for England’s November fixtures with Argentina, Japan, New Zealand and South Africa.

Underhill suffered a concussion in England’s second win over Australia in Brisbane two months ago, and was ruled out of the series decider a week later.

“Sam Underhill is due for surgery for a shoulder problem,” Bath said.

“The operation will see the Bath Rugby striker sidelined for around 12 weeks.”

Underhill injury is a blow to England head coach Eddie Jones

Underhill’s absence is a blow to England head coach Eddie Jones as the countdown to next year’s World Cup in France continues to gather pace.

The Openside Underhill flanker started in the World Cup final when England lost to South Africa in 2019, and Jones hopes to see him fit and shoot for the Six Nations Championship later this season.

Bath, meanwhile, have confirmed that three-time England prop Beno Obano has undergone knee surgery, although no timeframe has been set for his recovery.

“The club can also confirm that Beno Obano’s knee injury required surgery which was successful,” added Bath.

“He will now begin his rehabilitation with the medical staff at Bath Rugby.”

England have been drawn in Pool D for the 2023 Rugby World Cup – alongside Japan, Argentina, Samoa and Americas 2 (TBC). They will start their campaign against Argentina in Marseille on Saturday 9 September.