Rugby World Cup: Billy Vunipola trains with England, but Jack Nowell is missing ahead of huge Australia quarter-final
BILLY VUNIPOLA trained with his England teammates ahead of their huge Aussie showdown.
However, Jack Nowell was missing from training in Beppu this morning – throwing his chances of playing on Saturday into huge doubt.
Both England stars suffered injuries after the Pool C win against Argentina at Tokyo Stadium – with Vunipola coming off at half-time against the 14-man Pumas.
But no.8 Vunipola’s ankle problem seems to be less serious than winger Nowell’s issues.
England also recruited a local Japanese player to help boost training numbers with Exeter Chiefs star Nowell unable to take part.
Back-rower Mark Wilson was also absent from the start of the session at the Jissouji Multi-Purpose Ground just outside of Oita.
However, Aussie rugby league legend Ricky Stuart was down at training – a day after Wallabies Michael Cheika labelled Eddie Jones’ decision to bring him in as “weird”.
The 52-year-old said: “Ricky and Eddie would be mates I imagine.
‘MUST BE WEIRD FOR ENGLAND’
“I’m friends with Gareth Southgate but I don’t know if I’d be wanting him in here the week that we’re playing England.
“It must be weird for the players having an Aussie, because Ricky is a legend.
“I know Ricky too, have known him from way back. He’s a good guy and very passionate about his footy and I love his passion for the game.”