Erin King's Injury: A Major Setback for Ireland's Rugby Hopes in Six Nations and World Cup

Erin King Image source: Getty Images

Ireland's Rugby star Erin King will miss the remainder of the Women's Six Nations and the upcoming World Cup due to a severe knee injury. The Irish Rugby Football Union confirmed the unfortunate news, stating that the 21-year-old back row sustained the injury during last week's match against England in Cork. King is scheduled for surgery in Dublin on Thursday, followed by a rigorous rehabilitation process.

Heartbreak for King and Ireland King, who was named World Rugby Women's XV's Breakthrough Player of the Year in November, expressed her devastation. "I'm heartbroken," she said. "It feels very unfair right now, but I've had the best few months with this team. I can't wait to support in every way I can from the sidelines."

A Long Road to Recovery The young athlete acknowledged the challenges ahead but remained optimistic. "It will be a long road ahead, but with the support I have from family, friends, and team-mates, I will learn to accept that everything happens for a reason. If I stick to the process and rehab programme set out by the medical team, I'll be back better."

Impact on Ireland's Rugby Campaign King's absence is a significant blow to Ireland as they prepare for the World Cup in England this August and September. After missing the previous edition, the team was eager to make a strong comeback. King had been a pivotal player, making her XVs debut in September's win over Australia and securing her place in head coach Scott Bemand's squad.

Notable Achievements Her performances in the WXV1 in Canada, including scoring two tries in a memorable win over New Zealand, earned her the Breakthrough Player of the Year accolade. King had played every minute of Ireland's first three games in this year's Six Nations before her injury.

Sevens Success King also made her mark in the sevens format, debuting at the Dubai Sevens in December 2021. She played a crucial role in the Irish women's team winning their first World Series silver medal in Spain in February 2022. King was also part of the squad for the 2022 Rugby World Cup Sevens in Cape Town and represented Ireland at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

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