Gloucester Rugby captain Willi Heinz has been ruled out of Saturday’s World Cup final after picking up a hamstring injury during the 19-7 win over New Zealand.
Heinz made five appearances at the World Cup in Japan, including one start in the 45-7 win over USA.
He has been replaced in the squad by Saracens’ Ben Spencer for the showdown against South Africa in Yokohama.
Ben Young’s is England’s first choice scrum-half but Spencer will act as cover for the Gloucester man for the final.
Eddie Jones’s side face South Africa in the final after the Springboks edged past Wales in the second semi-final on Sunday, winning 16-19.
The England coach admitted that it’s a tough situation for Heinz after being a key member of the England squad in Japan.
“It is tough for Willi. He’s been a great contributor and very well-liked member of the squad and was in tears in the dressing room. It’s tough for him. Jones said.
“He has collected himself and knows he has another role to do for us and will fulfill it well this week.”
TOKYO, JAPAN – OCTOBER 23: Jack Nowell passes the ball to team mate Willi Heinz during the England training session held at Arcs Urayasi Park on October 23, 2019 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)
The Red Roses will be looking to win their second World Cup after winning their first tournament in 2003.
Here’s our match preview ahead of England’s clash with South Africa
