England's Megan Jones Ruled Out of September Internationals and WXV Tournament Due to Injury

England's rugby squad has been dealt a significant blow with the news that centre Megan Jones will miss both the September internationals and the WXV tournament following a serious ankle injury requiring surgery.

Jones, 27, who recently represented Team GB at the Paris Olympics in women's rugby sevens, where they finished seventh, will be sidelined as England prepare for crucial fixtures. The team is scheduled to face France on 7 September at Kingsholm Stadium and New Zealand at Twickenham a week later. They will then head to Canada to begin their WXV campaign against the USA on 29 September.

England head coach John Mitchell expressed his disappointment, describing Jones' absence as "upsetting" due to her "personality, capability, and leadership." He extended his well wishes to Jones for a swift recovery and anticipated her return to the squad for next year’s Six Nations Championship.

The WXV, a new annual competition launched by World Rugby in 2023, runs from 27 September to 13 October. This year’s tournament features three tiers, with England competing in Division One alongside Canada, France, Ireland, New Zealand, and the USA. The WXV aims to provide consistent competitive fixtures for teams in non-World Cup years.

Jones’ injury comes as a significant setback for England, but the team remains focused on their upcoming challenges and looks forward to her return in the near future.