Rugby World Cup: Willi Heinz is OUT of Saturday’s final – with Saracens star Ben Spencer flying out to replace him
WILLI HEINZ is OUT of Saturday’s World Cup final – with Ben Spencer flying out to replace him.
The Gloucester scrum-half was limping at the end of England’s win against New Zealand.
Kiwi-born Heinz only made his Test debut this summer at the age of 32.
He was a shock selection call by boss Eddie Jones, but has been a solid back-up to no.1 scrum-half Ben Youngs.
But now the Cherry and Whites captain won’t get to play a part in six days time.
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So Spencer, 27, is on his way to Japan after missing out on Jones 31-man squad.
In a short statement released on Sunday morning, England said: “Ben Spencer will join the England squad tomorrow as an injury replacement for Willi Heinz.
“Heinz injured his hamstring during England’s semi-final win over New Zealand last night.
“He will remain with the squad until the end of the tournament.”
Saracens star Spencer has only made three appearances for England and is a teammate of skipper Owen Farrell.
In total it will take the Sarries contingent in the squad to EIGHT – the most out of any Premiership club.