Sale centre Manu Tuilagi likely to miss England's Six Nations opener against Italy with groin injury

Manu Tuilagi looks set to miss the start of the 2024 Six Nations after the extent of the England centre's groin injury was revealed.

The 32-year-old was injured in Sale’s win against Saracens in the two sides' Gallagher Premiership Rugby clash on Friday, December 22.

He had to leave the field in the second half, and it was later confirmed that he suffered a grade three tear which will not require surgery, but does necessitate six weeks of rehabilitation.

The prognosis means that he will miss England’s first fixture against Italy in Rome, on February 3, at the very least.

Alex Sanderson, Sale director of rugby said: “Manu has pulled his groin and we think he’s going to be back during the Six Nations, but not for the first week.

“I spoke to him and he’s like ‘I need to play and if I’m good to play it’s up to England regarding selection’.

“He was in the frame before and I’ve stated before his intent to keep playing international rugby.

“Six weeks is the recommended time for the injury and Manu is saying four.”

It's the latest groin injury for Tuilagi, who has been plagued by issues in this area during his career.

Another Sale player, prop Bevan Rodd, has undergone toe surgery and will not be available for his club or England for the entirety of the Six Nations.

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