England winger Feyi-Waboso ruled out of Six Nations after surgery
England head coach Steve Borthwick
©PA
England’s Immanuel Feyi-Waboso has been ruled out of the entire Six Nations campaign after undergoing shoulder surgery.
The 22-year-old winger, who had been recovering from a dislocated shoulder sustained in December, had initially explored non-surgical rehabilitation options before ultimately opting for surgery.
His absence is a significant blow to England’s squad, as he had been considered a rising star in the team. The timing of his recovery also raises concerns about his availability for the British & Irish Lions tour of Australia later this year.
Feyi-Waboso’s injury management had been subject to weeks of uncertainty, delaying a clear recovery plan.
His club, Exeter Chiefs, had originally scheduled surgery, but the player deliberated over whether rehabilitation alone could allow him to return for the latter stages of the Six Nations.
When head coach Steve Borthwick announced England’s squad on January 14, he initially confirmed that Feyi-Waboso had opted for surgery.
However, a few days later, it was revealed that the winger had reconsidered and was hoping to feature in the tournament. He even attended England’s training camp for rehabilitation before finally deciding to undergo the procedure.
Feyi-Waboso later shared an update from the hospital, posting a picture on social media with the caption, "Minor setbacks, we go again."
With his surgery now complete, Feyi-Waboso faces a race against time to regain full fitness ahead of the British & Irish Lions squad selection, expected in late April or early May.
Andy Farrell, the Lions’ head coach, will announce his squad for the summer tour of Australia, and Feyi-Waboso’s return to fitness could determine whether he makes the cut.
Meanwhile, his club, Exeter Chiefs, will be without him for the remainder of the regular Premiership season, which concludes in May. With Exeter unlikely to reach the playoffs, he has just over three and a half months to recover and return to action before the season ends.
