Ellis out of World Cup

Leicester star Ellis had recently established himself as England's first-choice number nine, but now needs surgery to repair the cruciate ligament in his left knee and could be out for six months.

Ellis suffered the injury after falling awkwardly in Leicester's Guinness Premiership play-off semi-final win over Bristol on May 5.

England head coach Brian Ashton said: "This is a major blow to Harry, to Leicester given that they are aiming for a treble with the Heineken Cup final and to England for the Rugby World Cup.

"Harry was a key figure for us in the RBS Six Nations and he will be sorely missed. I wish him all the best for a full recovery."

The RFU said in a statement: "The England and Leicester medical teams and Harry have decided that surgery, which will take place later this week, is the best option for his long-term recovery."