Farrell out of Six Nations

Owen Farrell has been ruled out of England's entire RBS 6 Nations campaign with a knee injury.

The Saracens fly-half, who was expected to supply midfield cover from the bench, suffered a high grade medial ligament strain in Sunday's European Champions Cup defeat at Clermont

"It's a real shame for Owen that he sustained this injury and we wish him the best for his recovery," head coach Stuart Lancaster said.

Farrell's absence has opened the door for Danny Cipriani to claim a place on the bench against Wales on Friday week with George Ford starting the Championship opener at the Millennium Stadium.

Cipriani is competing with Stephen Myler to supply cover for Ford and will have a week's training at the squad's Pennyhill Park training base to argue his case for selection.

"We are fortunate to have three other number 10s in the squad in what is a very competitive position and are looking forward to seeing how they go during the Six Nations," Lancaster said.