Ward-Smith facing fitness race
England's Dan Ward-Smith starts his race against time to be fit for the World Cup.
England's Dan Ward-Smith starts his race against time to be fit for the World Cup after undergoing surgery on his horrific injuries.The Bristol number right dislocated his kneecap and also ruptured his patella tendon when falling awkwardly during his side's win at Northampton last week.
Ward-Smith was due to make his England debut in their RBS Six Nations opener against Scotland on Saturday, but he is now out for the entire competition.
The 29-year-old could be out for as long as six months and it means his changes of challenge for a World Cup place hang in the balance.
"Dan underwent surgery on Monday evening to repair the damage," Bristol physio Paul Tompkins.
"I've spoken to the surgeon and he's very happy with how it went.
"Dan's obviously now facing a lengthy spell of rehab but he's a dedicated trainer and he won't shirk the hard work.
"He'll get all the best possible support to help him back towards full fitness."
Bristol coach Richard Hill has not been confident on Ward-Smith's World Cup chances, especially if he is not fit in time to play in England's tour to South Africa in May.
