Wales fly-half Gareth Anscombe to miss Rugby World Cup with injury

Wales will miss the services of fly-half Gareth Anscombe for the upcoming World Cup in Japan next month following an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

The 28-year-old sustained the blow during the 34th minute in the recently concluded game against England at Twickenham Stadium and underwent scans after the game.

"Gareth Anscombe is out of Rugby World Cup contention after sustaining an anterior cruciate ligament injury in the match against England yesterday," read a statement released by the Welsh Rugby Union.

"His prognosis and management with be determined following further specialist reviews.

"The Wales squad and management would like to wish Gareth the very best with his recovery."

Anscombe has played 27 Tests in the last four years and was an integral part of Wales' Grand Slam winning Six Nations campaign earlier this year.

His absence means Wales are left with Dan Biggar, Jarrod Evans and Rhys Patchell as the possible options for the fly-half role in the showpiece event.

Anscombe expressed his disappointment on his social media account and is looking forward for Wales to achieve something special in Japan.

"Not quite the way I was hoping my World Cup dream would finish. Been a pretty tough 24 hours to take but I'm very thankful and humbled for all the kind well wishes.

"Still wrapping my head around what's happened and what's next but I'm excited to watch this @welshrugbyunion team go on and do something special. #cmoncymru"

Following their 33-19 defeat to England at Twickenham Stadium, Wales will once again face Eddie Jones' men at Millennium Stadium on 17th August.