England forward Maro Itoje has been ruled out of the upcoming Autumn Internationals after fracturing his hand.
The 21-year-old suffered the injury while playing for Saracens in Saturday evening's Champions Cup tie against Scarlets.
Itoje's right arm was trapped awkwardly during a tackle, and now Saracens have confirmed that their player will be out of action for six weeks, therefore missing England's upcoming clashes.
Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall said: "For any team to lose a player of the ability of Maro is a blow and he will be missed through the autumn for both Saracens and England.
"What's now important for Maro is his recovery and we look forward to his return later this season."
It is another blow for England head coach Eddie Jones, who is already without open-side flanker James Haskell, Mike Williams, Sam Jones and Jack Clifford.
England's opening international is against South Africa at Twickenham on November 12.
Danielle Joynson
