League convert Andy Farrell has been forced to pull out of England's quarter final against Australia this weekend due to a calf injury.
Coach Brian Ashton will not announce his replacement as inside centre until later tonight (NZT), with Olly Barkley and Dan Hipkiss the front runners andMike Catt an outside chance.
"It's not an ideal scenario for the team and it's tough for Andy but it illustrates the need for strength in depth at this World Cup," England first five-eighths Jonny Wilkinson told reporters after a kicking session at Marseille's Velodrome stadium.
TEAMS:
Australia:
Chris Latham; Adam Ashley-Cooper, Stirling Mortlock (captain), Matt Giteau, Lote Tuqiri; Berrick Barnes, George Gregan; Wycliff Palu, George Smith, Rocky Elsom; Dan Vickerman, Nathan Sharpe; Guy Shepherdson, Stephen Moore, Matt Dunning.
Reserves:
Adam Freier, Al Baxter, Hugh McMeniman, Stephen Hoiles, Phil Waugh, Julian Huxley, Drew Mitchell.
England:
Jason Robinson; Paul Sackey, Mathew Tait, t.b.a., Josh Lewsey; Jonny Wilkinson, Andy Gomarsall; Nick Easter, Lewis Moody, Martin Corry; Ben Kay, Simon Shaw; Phil Vickery (captain), Mark Regan, Andrew Sheridan
Reserves:
George Chuter, Matt Stevens, Lawrence Dallaglio, Joe Worsley, Peter Richards, Olly Barkley, Danny Hipkiss
