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Rugby Union

Prop Sheridan ruled out of second Test

16/06/2008

Prop Andrew Sheridan has been ruled out of England's second Test against New Zealand this weekend after receiving stitches for an eye injury.

The experienced Sale Sharks front row is widely regarded as one of the best scrummaging loose-head props in world rugby and will be a significant loss for the tourists.

England lost their first Test against the All Blacks 37-20 and looked well short of the quality shown by their hosts.

And Sheridan said being told he would miss the second match in Christchurch was a blow, although he will stay with the squad while receiving treatment.

"I'm obviously very disappointed to get the news but I've got to follow the medical advice I've received," he said.

"The laceration should be fully healed in a fortnight."

As a replacement for Sheridan, stand-in England team manager Rob Andrew has called up Newcastle Falcons prop David Wilson, who is currently touring with the Saxons squad at the Churchill Cup.

Wilson is uncapped at senior level but helped the Saxons qualify for the tournament final this week, although he is now ineligible to play after being called into the full squad.

"My immediate thoughts are with Andrew but I'm pleased to hear that his recovery is expected to be a relatively quick one," Wilson said.

"I knew England Saxons was a possible stepping stone for me but I didn't expect the call up to come quite so soon.

"I'm disappointed to be leaving the Saxons - having helped them to get there I was really looking forward to playing in the Barclays Churchill Cup final, but obviously this is a huge honour and not something I could say no to."