Six Nations

England's Farrell ruled out of Six Nations

ESPN Staff

Who should you pick at Fly Half?

Owen Farrell has been ruled out of the Six Nations after England confirmed the fly-half has contracted a "high-grade medial ligament strain".

Farrell picked up the injury in Sunday's match at Clermont and will now sit out the entire championship. The news will come as a huge blow for England as they battle a growing injury list.

George Ford is now set to start the Six Nations opener against Wales on February 6 with Stephen Myler and Danny Cipriani vying for a spot on the bench.

Despite reports saying Brad Barritt will miss the match in Wales, England will continue to monitor his injury but both he and Geoff Parling are major doubts to make the game due to both carrying knee medial ligament strains. England are also waiting on Tom Wood (ankle) and Kyle Eastmond's (shoulder) injuries.

"It's a real shame for Owen that he sustained this injury and we wish him the best for his recovery," Stuart Lancaster said. "We are fortunate to have three other No.10s in the squad in what is a very competitive position and we will look forward to seeing how they go over the Six Nations. We will continue to assess and treat the other players' injuries and will provide an update at the launch tomorrow."

England are already without Manu Tuilagi and Courtney Lawes for the start of the championship while Joe Launchbury, Ben Morgan, Ed Slater and Ben Foden will miss the entire Six Nations.

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