England release Beno Obano, Will Joseph from training squad

England head coach Steve Borthwick has released Beno Obano and Will Joseph from the updated Rugby World Cup training squad.

The squad which has seen a reduction from 38 to 36 players is yet to see the inclusion of members from Premiership finalists Sale Sharks and Saracens.

"I'm pleased with the progress that's been made over the last two weeks and we look forward to another productive training camp at the Lensbury," Borthwick said on Monday.

"There's still a long way to go until we are ready for a World Cup, but each day we take another step forward."

Saracens number eight Billy Vunipola underwent a minor surgical procedure on knee but is expected to be fit for the showpiece event in France.

“The medical team are positive about my prospects, and I understand exactly what needs to be done over the next few weeks,” said Vunipola.

Ollie Chessum, Luke Cowan-Dickie, Ollie Lawrence and Jack Walker continue to be part of the squad as they continue to rehabilitate from their respective injuries.

England 36-man squad:

Forwards: Jamie Blamire (Newcastle), Dan Cole (Leicester), Alex Dombrandt (Harlequins), Tom Dunn (Bath), Charlie Ewels (Bath), Ellis Genge (Bristol), Joe Heyes (Leicester), Ted Hill (Bath), Courtney Lawes (Northampton), Lewis Ludlam (Northampton), Joe Marler (Harlequins), George Martin (Leicester), Zach Mercer (Montpellier), Tom Pearson (London Irish), Val Rapava-Ruskin (Gloucester), David Ribbans (Northampton), Kyle Sinckler (Bristol), Will Stuart (Bath), Sam Underhill (Bath).

Backs: Henry Arundell (London Irish), Danny Care (Harlequins), Joe Cokanasiga (Bath), Fraser Dingwall (Northampton), Tommy Freeman (Northampton), Joe Marchant (Harlequins), Jonny May (Gloucester), Alex Mitchell (Northampton), Cadan Murley (Harlequins), Guy Porter (Leicester), Henry Slade (Exeter), Fin Smith (Northampton), Marcus Smith (Harlequins), Freddie Steward (Leicester), Jack van Poortvliet (Leicester), Anthony Watson (Leicester), Ben Youngs (Leicester).