Sport: Rugby Country: South Africa Category: General

George Furbank out of England's opener against South Africa

Sky Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 4, 2026, 10:28 AM

Last updated Jul 4, 2026

George Furbank out of England's opener against South Africa

Summary

George Furbank is unavailable for England's Nations Championship opener against South Africa on Saturday in Johannesburg due to appendicitis. He was hospitalized on Friday evening and his absence could extend to the entire summer tour, affecting matchups against Fiji and Argentina as well. Marcus Smith steps into the starting XV for Furbank, who was poised to return after injury setbacks. Furbank last played for England in November 2024 and had recently played a key role in Northampton's Prem Rugby title run before joining Harlequins.

Source Links

Sky Sports

Key Details

•Furbank out due to appendicitis, likely missing summer tour
•Marcus Smith replaces Furbank in the starting lineup
•Furbank last played for England in November 2024
•Furbank helped Northampton win the Prem Rugby title this summer
•Henry Slade added to the bench for the match against South Africa

What they're saying

"
George Furbank is out of England's Nations Championship opener against South Africa in Johannesburg on Saturday due to appendicitis and could miss the entire summer tour.
— Sky Sports

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