Mako Vunipola available for England’s Six Nations opener despite four-match banBy Andrew Baldock, PA Rugby Union CorrespondentSaracens and England prop Mako Vunipola has received a four-match ban after being sent off against Gallagher Premiership opponents Newcastle. Vunipola was dismissed during the closing stages of Saturday’s encounter following a dangerous tackle on Newcastle hooker Bryan Byrne. Vunipola, though, will be available for England’s Guinness Six Nations opener against Italy in Rome on February 3 if head coach Steve Borthwick decides to recall him. And that could prove timely, given current injuries to England’s three World Cup squad loosehead props Ellis Genge, Joe Marler and Bevan Rodd. Mako Vunipola will be available for the start of England’s Six Nations campaign (Ben Whitley/PA) Photo by Ben Whitley“The panel upheld the charge and Vunipola received a four-match ban.

Source: Irish Independent January 03, 2024 19:55 UTC