First-choice England scrumhalf Alex Mitchell has been left out of Steve Borthwick’s squad for the November Tests that includes a Twickenham visit from the Springboks.
Mitchell has not played this season because of a neck injury and his club, the Northampton Saints have been unable to provide a timeframe for his return.
England host South Africa on Saturday, 16 November, and are also due to face New Zealand, Australia, and Japan.
George Ford was also left out of Borthwick’s 36-man squad as he battles a thigh issue, but the Sale flyhalf will remain with the group that departs for a training camp in Spain on Monday to continue his rehabilitation.
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Fraser Dingwall is another notable absence due to injury, but Henry Slade is included despite only just returning from shoulder surgery.
“Naming this squad is an exciting step in our preparations for the Autumn Nations Series and we look forward to working with the players again in the days ahead,” said Borthwick.
“Facing New Zealand in the opening match is a tremendous opportunity for us to test ourselves against one of the best teams in the world.”
© Agence France-Presse
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