Alex Mitchell withdraws from 2026 Nations Championship games due to hamstring injury

The 29-year-old Northampton half-back was forced off in the first half of their 28-14 victory over Gloucester last Saturday, and national team officials have now confirmed he will miss all three Tests against Australia, Japan, and New Zealand.

The timing of Mitchell’s latest setback is particularly cruel for both player and country.

Having worked tirelessly to secure his position as England’s primary tactical engine, his extended absence now leaves a glaring hole in the backline. 

Dealing with recurring muscle tears can be daunting for a player given the difficulty of putting them to bed for good, and Borthwick's coaching staff will certainly have to adjust their game plan to navigate through these international fixtures without his trademark tempo and decision-making behind the pack.

There is better news regarding fly-half Fin Smith, who managed to take part in running drills upon arriving at camp as he continues his recovery from a calf strain.

England are said to remain confident about his chances of being fit for Sunday's clash with the Wallabies.

Addressing his team-mate's setback, Northampton winger Tommy Freeman said it was "gutting" news for Mitchell while saying that he expected him to return to full fitness.

"It will definitely give him time to go after his rehab and get to the bottom of what is going on, find new solutions and ways to maximise his recovery," Freeman said.

"You don't want to see your mate and a player who is a massive part of this group out. He is going to be missed with his humour off the field and playing ability on it."

Freeman also sounded an encouraging note on Smith's progress, noting that he feels "pretty optimistic" about getting out on the pitch this weekend:

"He's joining in with meetings and giving good points, so he's very much involved, and that shows the character he is," Freeman added.

In response to the injury, England have called up Bath's Ben Spencer and Bristol Bears' Harry Randall as scrum-half cover. 

Leicester's Jack van Poortvliet, who started each of England's three summer Tests, is expected to step in as first choice. 

Meanwhile, 21-year-old Northampton scrum-half Archie McParland was included in the original training squad but has since pulled out with a calf problem of his own.

Hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie and flanker Tom Curry both took part in personalised training sessions on Tuesday at England's Bagshot base, but both are believed to be likely to be available for Sunday's match against Australia.

Head coach Borthwick is scheduled to unveil his starting line-up for the match on Friday, with England continuing their build-up to next year's Rugby World Cup.

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