England's Matt Stevens to miss South Africa tour with injury

  • Published
Matt Stevens
Image caption,

Matt Stevens

Matt Stevens has pulled out of England's upcoming tour to South Africa.

The Saracens prop picked up a shoulder injury in England's win against the Barbarians on Sunday.

Gloucester's Rupert Harden, who has yet to win a cap, has been called up to replace Stevens.

Stuart Lancaster's side take on the Springboks in a three-match series beginning on 9 June in Durban.

England will also face South Africa in Johannesburg on 16 June before the final game on 23 June in Port Elizabeth.

Lancaster said: "Firstly, it's really tough on Matt but he has been assessed by the medics and he wouldn't be able to train or play for some time.

"We wish him all the best but it's a great opportunity for Rupert, who has been the first-choice tight head for Gloucester this season and also involved with the Saxons during the Six Nations."