England's Alex Mitchell sidelined by hamstring injury ahead of Australia clash

England’s half-back situation has worsened as scrum half Alex Mitchell is doubtful for their upcoming Nations Championship matches due to a hamstring injury. Mitchell exited early during Northampton Saints’ 28-14 victory over Gloucester, with initial assessments indicating he may miss the autumn fixtures. His half-back partner, Fin Smith, is also a concern due to a calf injury, leaving Jack van Poortvliet likely to start against Australia on Sunday. Phil Dowson, Northampton's director of rugby, stated that both Mitchell and Smith's injuries will be closely monitored ahead of the squad announcement on Monday morning. Additionally, Bath's Kepu Tuipulotu faces a knee surgery after sustaining an injury in training, complicating England's planning for matches against Australia, Japan, and New Zealand this month.

• 6:42 AMYahoo Sports — Alex Mitchell injury blow adds to England’s half-back woes