Billy Vunipola ruled out of World Cup

In a major blow to England’s chances of overturning their perilous position in Pool A of the 2015 Rugby World Cup, injury has ruled Billy Vunipola out for the remainder of the competition.

Vunipola, the Saracens No 8, is expected to be out of action for six weeks after sustaining the injury during England’s 28-25 defeat by Wales on Saturday night.

Vunipola, who came off the bench to score a late try to secure a bonus point in the opening win over Fiji, started against Wales after a knee injury ruled out Ben Morgan.

“He has worked really hard and committed everything to the last three months but he is a young man with a bright future.” He is a specialist number eight and an experienced player.

Easter, who has 52 Test caps and was involved in both England’s 2007 and 2011 Rugby World Cup campaigns, will join up with the squad on Monday. “We know he will make a big contribution”, Lancaster said.

Farrell revealed that Morgan is available for selection against Australia after resuming full training on Monday, Jonathan Joseph is progressing well and could be available, but Courtney Lawes and Ben Youngs must prove their fitness over the next two days.

Nick Easter, not selected in Stuart Lancaster’s 31-man squad, has been called up as his replacement.

Lancaster refused to accept England “choked” against Wales, and his players are desperate to make amends in the decisive week of his four-year reign.

“Hopefully we will see him back playing very soon, but it gives the opportunity for Nick Easter to come back into the squad, an experienced guy that’s been there and done that before”.