Sam Underhill ruled out of Nations Championship after biceps rupture

England have been dealt an injury blow ahead of the Nations Championship after Sam Underhill was ruled out of the autumn internationals with a ruptured biceps.

The Bath flanker suffered the injury during his side’s opening Premiership game against Harlequins at the Stoop, leaving the field early in the second half before subsequent scans confirmed the extent of the damage.

Underhill is due to undergo surgery this week and Bath expect the 30-year-old to remain sidelined until December or January, ruling him out of England’s November fixtures against Australia, Japan and New Zealand.

Underhill facing several months on the sidelines

Underhill was withdrawn after 48 minutes of Bath’s victory against Harlequins and was later seen with his arm heavily strapped.

Bath Head of Rugby Johann van Graan revealed that he suspected a significant injury immediately after Underhill left the pitch, before scans confirmed a biceps rupture.

“At the time I thought, we need to wait for a scan but this could be a biceps rupture. The scan turned out to be exactly that,” Van Graan said.

“He will get operated on on Thursday, that’s a few months out of the game – not ideal from Sam’s point of view.”

The setback comes at a frustrating stage of the season for Underhill, who had only recently returned to competitive action following another spell on the sidelines.

He missed England’s summer internationals after undergoing shoulder surgery but had been heavily involved during the Six Nations earlier in the year, featuring in all five matches.

With 51 international caps to his name, Underhill has become one of the more experienced members of England’s forward options and has remained part of Steve Borthwick’s plans when available.

What does Underhill’s absence mean for England?

Underhill’s injury removes one of England’s most experienced defensive back-row options ahead of three significant internationals at the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham.

The Bath forward has established his international reputation through his work without the ball, particularly his tackling, defensive positioning and ability to compete at the breakdown.

England are not short of options across the back row, but Underhill’s absence will reduce Borthwick’s choices as he prepares his squad for November.

Ben Earl and Tom Curry have considerable international experience, while Guy Pepper and Henry Pollock have increased the competition for places. Chandler Cunningham-South and Ollie Chessum have also been used across England’s back row during Borthwick’s tenure.

Pepper could be one player to benefit from additional opportunities. The Bath forward was included alongside Underhill during the Six Nations and replaced his club teammate after he was forced off against Harlequins.

Borthwick will therefore have several options available, but replacing Underhill’s combination of international experience and defensive quality will still be a significant consideration when England’s squad is selected.

England turn attention to November internationals

England will return to international action at the Allianz Stadium in November as the inaugural Nations Championship reaches its closing stages.

Australia provide the opposition on Sunday 8th November before England face Japan on Saturday 14th November. Their final pool fixture comes against New Zealand on Saturday 21st November.

The three matches will determine England’s position ahead of the Nations Championship Finals Weekend, which takes place at the Allianz Stadium from Friday 27th to Sunday 29th November.

Underhill’s expected recovery period means he is set to miss the entire November programme, leaving England to complete their first Nations Championship campaign without the 51-cap flanker.

His attention will instead turn towards rehabilitation following surgery as he targets a return for Bath towards the end of the year or in January.

Nations Championship hospitality with Eventmasters

England will host Australia, Japan and New Zealand at the Allianz Stadium during November as the inaugural Nations Championship reaches its decisive stages.

Official Nations Championship hospitality with Eventmasters is available for England’s three home fixtures, offering guests the opportunity to experience international rugby from premium hospitality facilities at the home of English rugby.

Hospitality is available for England v Australia on Sunday 8th November, England v Japan on Saturday 14th November and England v New Zealand on Saturday 21st November 2026.

Enquire with Eventmasters to discover the hospitality packages available for your preferred Nations Championship fixture.

Nations Championship FAQs

Why will Sam Underhill miss the Nations Championship?

Underhill suffered a ruptured biceps during Bath’s opening Premiership fixture against Harlequins. He requires surgery and is expected to remain sidelined until December or January.

How many times has Sam Underhill played for England?

Underhill has won 51 caps for England and featured in all five of their matches during the 2026 Six Nations.

Who could replace Sam Underhill for England?

England have several back-row options available, including Ben Earl, Tom Curry, Guy Pepper, Henry Pollock, Chandler Cunningham-South and Ollie Chessum. Steve Borthwick will decide on his preferred combination when selecting his Nations Championship squad.

Who do England play at home in the Nations Championship?

England host Australia on Sunday 8th November, Japan on Saturday 14th November and New Zealand on Saturday 21st November 2026 at the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham.

Can I enquire about Nations Championship hospitality with Eventmasters?

Yes. Eventmasters offers Nations Championship hospitality for England’s home fixtures against Australia, Japan and New Zealand at the Allianz Stadium. Guests can enquire about availability and the hospitality packages available for their preferred match.