Today’s rugby news as Gatland to watch intently tonight and England dealt Six Nations blow

This is your round-up of all the latest rugby news for Friday, December 29.

Tuilagi sweating on Six Nations fitness

Sale centre Manu Tuilagi is now a doubt for England’s Six Nations Opener with Italy, having suffered another groin injury.

The 32-year-old doesn’t require surgery, but early estimates suggest he could be out of action for around six weeks, after picking up the injury while in action for Sale against Saracens.

England take on Italy in Rome on February 3.

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Alex Sanderson, Sale director of rugby, said: “Manu has pulled his groin and we think he’s going to be back during the Six Nations, but not for the first week.

“I spoke to him and he’s like ‘I need to play and if I’m good to play it’s up to England regarding selection’.

“He was in the frame before and I’ve stated before his intent to keep playing international rugby. Six weeks is the recommended time for the injury and Manu is saying four.”

Gatland to watch on

Wales head coach Warren Gatland will no doubt be keeping tabs on Bristol Bears’ clash with Exeter Chiefs tonight.

Ashton Gate is set for a Christmas cracker, with more than 23,srcsrcsrc tickets sold for the match.

It will be another opportunity for Callum Sheedy to impress the Kiwi, with the fly-half named in the starting line-up. With no Dan Biggar and Gareth Ans