England centre Dan Hipkiss has been ruled out for up to six weeks after it was revealed he needs knee surgery.
The 26-year-old Leicester Tiger was a member of England’s 2007 Rugby World Cup squad but had missed out on selection for the forthcoming Six Nations.
Hipkiss had been named in the England Saxons squad, however, and will now have to withdraw from his country’s second string side.
Hipkiss suffered the injury against Bath at Welford Road on January 4, the same match in which he tore a hamstring.
"Injuries are occupational hazards of the game," said Hipkiss.
"I need a cartilage repaired and will probably be out for four to six weeks.
"It’s not ideal but it’s nothing serious. I am trying not to worry about it."
