"Already ruled out" - Five England Stars Face Six Nations Snub

Here, we examine five England contenders whose availability or form could yet rule them out of the championship as the tournament fast approaches.

England winger Tom Roebuck has been out for several months after picking up a toe injury during the 2025 Quilter Nations Series. The Sale Sharks back was hurt when his standing foot twisted awkwardly in a tackle against New Zealand, resulting in a significant setback. He is now racing to recover in time for the start of the 2026 Six Nations.

Early indications point to a potential return in either the first or second weekend of the tournament, which opens with England hosting Wales on 7 February. However, the lengthy absence has stalled his international progress and could jeopardise his hopes of securing a regular place in the England setup.

Seb Atkinson, who impressed on England’s summer tour of Argentina, was ruled out of the Quilter Autumn Nations Series after suffering knee and hip injuries in Gloucester’s Premiership defeat to Bath in mid-October.

That absence may yet cost him a Six Nations place. Despite producing some strong performances for Gloucester since returning, missing the autumn internationals could see him slip down the England pecking order. Even if fully fit, Atkinson may find himself overlooked.

England lock George Martin continues to be sidelined by a long-standing nerve issue in his shoulder that has kept him out for close to a year.

His most recent appearance came in round two of last season’s Six Nations against France, with rest failing to resolve the problem. Surgery during the summer ruled him out of the opening half of the current campaign, but his recovery has been slower than anticipated.

With Steve Borthwick set to announce his Six Nations squad this week, time is running out for the 24-year-old to demonstrate his readiness. The extended absence has been a source of frustration for both Martin and the England coaching staff, as further complications have delayed his return.

Bath and England prop Will Stuart faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after rupturing his Achilles tendon, an injury described as “very serious” and one that leaves him with a long road back to fitness.

The 29-year-old was forced off early in the second half of Bath’s Champions Cup win over Munster in December. Stuart featured from the bench in England’s autumn victories over Australia, New Zealand and Argentina and is one of 25 players on Elite Player contracts for the 2025–26 season.

He has earned 53 England caps and made his British and Irish Lions debut last summer, featuring in all three Tests of the series win in Australia. At club level, Stuart played a key role in Bath’s Premiership triumph last season and has made five appearances across all competitions this campaign.

Leicester winger Adam Radwan had been building a strong case for selection after scoring two tries in consecutive matches against Saracens and Bayonne.

However, Tigers head coach Geoff Parling has confirmed the 28-year-old is dealing with a lower-leg problem and may require surgery, potentially ruling him out for the entire championship.

Since joining Leicester from Newcastle 13 months ago, Radwan has scored 20 tries in 24 appearances, reigniting hopes of an England recall. Last capped against Tonga four years ago, he was involved with England A during the autumn fixture against a New Zealand XV.