Mitchell’s fourth injury ends his autumn

Alex Mitchell, forced off after 21 minutes against Gloucester on Saturday, will miss Australia, Japan, New Zealand and the finals weekend.

The fourth in 2026

It is the scrum-half’s fourth hamstring injury this year, according to The Guardian and Sky Sports. The first came during the Six Nations. The second came at an England camp in May, and he recovered for Northampton’s Premiership final win over Exeter. The third stopped him against Fiji in July, nine minutes after coming on.

Van Poortvliet at 9

Jack van Poortvliet (Leicester) is expected to start against Australia on Sunday, with Ben Spencer or Harry Randall on the bench. Archie McParland, who has a calf injury, could return against Japan or New Zealand.

Steve Borthwick is also waiting on Fin Smith, fighting his second calf problem of the year. The head coach has given him until Wednesday, with George Ford and Marcus Smith on standby. Sam Underhill (biceps), Kepu Tuipulotu (knee) and Benhard Janse van Rensburg (concussion) will also miss the whole month.