14 May 2007
England and Leicester Tigers scrum-half Harry Ellis will undergo reconstructive knee ligament surgery and consequently miss the Rugby World Cup 2007.

Ellis ruptured his left anterior cruciate ligament in the Guinness Premiership semi-final against Bristol Rugby on May 5.

The England and Leicester Tigers medical teams and Harry have decided that surgery, which will take place later this week, is the best option for his long-term recovery.

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 6 Nations and he will be sorely missed. I wish him all the best for a full recovery."