Nick Easter has been called up as a replacement for England No 8 Billy Vunipola, who has been ruled out of the World Cup with a knee injury.

Vunipola suffered the injury against Wales on Saturday, with scans on Monday confirming that he would play no further part in the tournament.

Easter, who has 52 Test caps and was involved in England’s last two World Cup campaigns, will now join up with the England squad.

'It's so unfortunate for Billy,' England coach Stuart Lancaster said. 'He has worked really hard and committed everything to the last three months, but he is a young man with a bright future ahead of him and I know he will be an integral part of this team for years to come.

'Nick was unlucky to miss out on final selection. He is a specialist No 8 and an experienced player. We know he will make a big contribution.'

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