England suffer Strettle blow - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

England suffer Strettle blow

Harlequins wing David Strettle has been ruled out of England's first Test against South Africa in Bloemfontein due to illness.

Strettle is a victim of the stomach virus that has affected a handful of England players, and has been admitted to hospital for rehydration and monitoring.

He will be replaced in the starting line-up by Gloucester's Iain Balshaw.

England team doctor Simon Kemp said: "David's vomiting continued through Wednesday and he was unable to take fluids by mouth. He was therefore admitted to a local hospital for rehydration and monitoring.

"And while he has made good progress overnight, he will not be fit to play on Saturday."

Centre Andy Farrell, meanwhile, was advised to take further rest, but England say he is making good progress from his virus.

England head coach Brian Ashton said: "I obviously feel for David as it is his first tour, but Iain is an experienced player and will do a good job for us."

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