England’s Jack Willis has said he will come back “a better and stronger player” in his first social media post after a devastating knee injury against Italy on Saturday.
The flanker’s howls of pain echoed through an empty Twickenham after being crocodile rolled by Sebastian Negri in the second half. He had scored England’s fifth try only minutes after coming on, but was soon being stretchered off.
Though there are reports that he may not have ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament, he is still expected to spend a long time on the sidelines. He described this as “the highs and lows of rugby” on social media, while adding that he is “truly gutted” with his latest setback.
WATCH: Rugby laws brought into question following HORRIFIC Willis injury
“The highs and lows of Rugby,” he wrote.
“I have loved every second of training and playing in an England shirt and it has been a dream come true to be involved in such a great group of lads and coaches. I’m truly gutted with the way it ended on Saturday but these things happen…
“I will give everything I can to my rehab to come back a better and stronger player. Thank you so much for all the messages and support I’ve received, it really is appreciated.
I will be back.”
The 24-year-old has vowed to come back stronger, as he already has done in his career after a similar injury. He was out of action for almost a year across 2018 and 2019 after rupturing his ACL while playing for Wasps. This came only days after he was selected for England’s summer tour of South Africa.
He was a bright talent then, but his injury did not curtail his career, and he was crowned the RPA players’ player of the year in 2020 after helping Wasps reach the Gallagher Premiership final.
His injury has sparked calls for a review of the Laws of rugby, particularly regarding crocodile rolls.
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