Exeter Chiefs winger hit with late injury doubt for England’s Six Nations opener

An Exeter Chiefs player could miss England’s opening match of the 2026 Guinness Six Nations after picking up an injury during training.

England winger Immanuel Feyi-Waboso is a doubt for Saturday’s match against Wales at Twickenham after leaving Thursday’s training session early with a leg problem.

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The 23-year-old had been named in England’s starting XV by head coach Steve Borthwick before the injury concern emerged.

Speaking on Rugby Union Weekly, England defence coach Richard Wigglesworth said Feyi-Waboso “pulled up at the very end” of training and that the issue was being assessed.

England’s Six Nations campaign begins against Wales on Saturday 7 February, with kick-off scheduled for 4.40pm, with the match being broadcast live on ITV.

Feyi-Waboso, who plays his club rugby for Exeter Chiefs, has become a regular in the England squad, starting all four of England’s autumn Tests. 

He has scored seven tries in 13 international appearances.

Born in Cardiff, the winger represented Wales at age-grade level but has yet to face them at senior international level. 

His absence could lead to changes in England’s backline if he is ruled out.

England team announcements suggest several options are available, including moving Tommy Freeman back to the wing or selecting Elliot Daly as a replacement.

Feyi-Waboso came through Exeter’s academy system and his involvement in the England squad continues a long-standing link between Devon-based players and the national side.

Exeter Chiefs have produced a number of England internationals in recent years, including World Cup winner Jack Nowell and former England hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie, who is named on the bench for Saturday’s match.

England’s Six Nations campaign runs over the next six weeks, with a mix of home and away fixtures as the tournament continues.