Townsend out of JWC

 

Exeter Chiefs youngster Stuart Townsend is out of England's Under-20 Junior World Championship squad after sustaining a knee injury playing against Wales on Saturday.

The talented scrum-half, who scored twice against Japan in their opening fixture and added his third of the campaign in the 30-16 victory over Wales, will be replaced by Bath's Will Homer.

Head Coach Jon Callard said: “It is hugely disappointing for Stuart, who has worked extremely hard over the last 10 months to get himself into fantastic shape. He has proved his fitness and his speed of delivery from the breakdown has been exceptional. He was playing very well and I feel for him.”

Homer, who trained with the squad during the Six Nations and featured in England’s hard-fought win against Ireland, arrives in Italy later today.

Callard added: “We plan for eventualities like this. Will is experienced, familiar with the squad, and has been training hard with Bath right up until the Aviva Premiership Final so we know he is well prepared and ready to take this opportunity.

“In addition, James Mitchell has had game time already in both pool games and played well during the Six Nations. He brings a lot of energy and tempo so, along with the rest of the management, I am confident that this change will be seamless for the squad.”