Injury blow for England as Alex Mitchell ruled out of autumn internationals

England face a significant blow as Alex Mitchell is ruled out of the Nations Championship and autumn internationals. A scan confirmed the Northampton scrum-half will miss the entire campaign after suffering his fourth hamstring injury in 2026. Steve Borthwick faces further half-back concerns with Fin Smith also an injury worry. Consequently, Jack van Poortvliet is expected to start in the opening match against Australia on Sunday, as England struggle with persistent squad availability issues.