Sam Simmonds, the England and Lions No.8 and former European player of the year, has dealt Steve Borthwick a blow by making himself unavailable for the Rugby World Cup.
The Montpellier-bound Exeter star was expected to challenge Billy Vunipola and Alex Dombrandt for selection at the tournament in France, having been so influential in Chiefs' run to the Champions Cup semi-finals.
Instead he spoke to Borthwick ahead of today’s first training camp and ruled himself out of contention - opening the door to Zach Mercer, the man he is replacing at Montpellier next season.
