Rugby: England Scrum-Half Mitchell Ruled Out of Nations Championship

England scrum-half Alex Mitchell has been ruled out of the entire Nations Championship after suffering his fourth hamstring injury of the year.

The Northampton Saints player limped off during his club’s Premiership match against Gloucester last Saturday, with England confirming that he would miss their fixtures against Australia, Japan and New Zealand this month.

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Meanwhile, fly-half Fin Smith has resumed limited training as he continues his recovery from a calf injury.

Smith participated in running drills upon arriving at England’s training camp, with team sources remaining optimistic about his chances of being fit for Sunday’s encounter against Australia.

Mitchell’s absence had been anticipated after he withdrew during the first half of Northampton’s 28-14 victory over Gloucester.

The 29-year-old had already suffered three hamstring injuries during 2026 and now faces another extended spell on the sidelines for club and country.

Bath’s Ben Spencer and Bristol Bears scrum-half Harry Randall were called into England’s squad on Monday to provide additional options.

Leicester Tigers’ Jack van Poortvliet, who started all three of England’s summer Tests, is expected to lead the scrum-half selection race against Australia.

Northampton’s Archie McParland, 21, who was initially included in the training squad, has also withdrawn after sustaining a calf injury.

Hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie and flanker Tom Curry participated in modified training at England’s Bagshot base on Tuesday but are expected to be available for selection.

England head coach Steve Borthwick will announce his team for Sunday’s clash with Australia on Friday.