Haskell expected to miss up to six months of rugby

England and Wasps backrower James Haskell is expected to miss up to six months of rugby as the back rower requires surgery.

Haskell suffered the injury in England’s second Test victory over Australia and missed the third and final Test.

After limping off in England’s second test against Australia, James Haskell will undergo reconstructive surgery on his big toe before returning to Wasps to complete his rehabilitation process which is expected to keep him sidelined for 4 to 6 months.

Haskell, who was named man of the series, was forced from the field in England’s second test, where they secured the series win, before going on to complete a 3-0 whitewash in the final fixture.

On the news of Haskell’s injury, Wasps Director of Rugby Dai Young said: “We’re all really disappointed for James and we are all wishing him a speedy recovery.

“James’ performances with England, both in the 3-0 series win over Australia and in England’s Six Nations Grand Slam success, have been hugely impressive. Everyone at Wasps knows how hard James works to make those performances happen, and we know he’ll be working just as hard to come back in the best shape possible.

“Our medical team will be working closely with James over the next few months to get him back to full fitness and in the meantime there will be a good opportunity for the other back row players we have at the club to stake a claim.”