Wales flanker Botham released from Six Nations squad
Flanker James Botham has been released from Wales' Six Nations squad due to a knee injury, the Welsh Rugby Union said on Tuesday.
🚨 Diweddariad Carfan 🏴
— Welsh Rugby Union 🏴 (@WelshRugbyUnion) February 6, 2024
Dillon Lewis and Seb Davies have been called up to the Welsh senior squad.
James Botham (Cardiff Rugby) has been released from the squad due to a knee injury picked up during Saturday's game. He will continue his rehabilitation at his club. pic.twitter.com/YB2scvRY3E
Botham, the grandson of England cricket great Ian Botham, was hurt during Saturday's 27-26 defeat against Scotland in Cardiff.
Cardiff forward Seb Davies has been called into the squad, while experienced Harlequins prop Dillon Lewis has also been summoned by Wales head coach Warren Gatland ahead of Saturday's Twickenham appointment with England.
"James Botham (Cardiff Rugby) has been released from the squad due to a knee injury picked up during Wales' 26-27 defeat to Scotland on Saturday," the WRU said on X, formerly known as Twitter.
"He will continue his rehabilitation back at his club."
Botham scored Wales' opening try during a thrilling second half against the Scotland, during which they fought back to within a point after trailing 27-0.
His Cardiff teammate Alex Mann, who touched down on his debut, now looks a likely starter against England.
Botham's problem is another back-row injury blow for Gatland, with World Cup co-captain Jac Morgan and experienced No 8 Taulupe Faletau out of action.
Advertisement