Furbank Misses Second Test, Suffers Setback for England England fullback George Furbank will miss the upcoming second Test match against New Zealand in Christchurch due to a recurrence of his back issue. The Northampton Saints utility player had been named in England’s 23-man squad for the second Test, but he experienced discomfort during training and was subsequently ruled out. Furbank’s absence is a significant blow to England, who are already without first-choice fullback Freddie Steward following his concussion in the first Test defeat. Elliot Daly is now expected to start at fullback, with Henry Slade moving to the wing. The injury setback is also a major disappointment for Furbank, who has been in excellent form for Northampton this season and was eager to make his mark in the Test series. “It’s really frustrating for George,” said England head coach Eddie Jones. “He’s had a fantastic season with Northampton, but he’s just got this little niggle in his back. We’re hoping it’s only a short-term thing and he’ll be back soon.” Furbank will now undergo further assessment and rehabilitation, with the hope that he can return to action in time for the third Test in Wellington on November 26. “I’m absolutely gutted to miss the second Test,” said Furbank. “I’ve been working so hard and I was really looking forward to the opportunity. But I’m going to get my head down, do what I need to do, and hopefully be back on the field soon.” England will be aiming to bounce back from their 19-35 defeat in the first Test when they face New Zealand in the second Test on Saturday.England received unfortunate news on the eve of their second Test against New Zealand, with George Furbank ruled out of the Auckland clash due to a back injury.England received unfortunate news on the eve of their second Test against New Zealand, with George Furbank ruled out of the Auckland clash due to a back injury. Earlier in the week, Furbank was regarded as the tourists’ primary threat by his counterpart Stephen Perofeta. However, his late injury will prevent him from showcasing his attacking skills at Eden Park. Replacing Furbank at full-back is Freddie Steward, who will make his first England appearance since February 10th, when he started against Wales in the Six Nations. The following is a summary of the news: * George Furbank, England’s full-back, has been ruled out of the second Test against New Zealand due to a back injury. * Freddie Steward will take Furbank’s place at full-back. * Furbank was considered a key player for England by his opposite number Stephen Perofeta. * Steward’s last England appearance was against Wales in the Six Nations on February 10th.George Furbank misses the second test against New Zealand and suffers setback in England George Furbank has been ruled out of England’s second Test against New Zealand with a back injury. The full-back was forced off during the first half of the 40-25 defeat in Auckland last weekend and will now miss the match in Dunedin on Saturday. Furbank’s absence is a blow to England, who are already without several key players through injury. Owen Farrell, Maro Itoje, Jonny May and Jamie George are all out of the series, while Elliot Daly is a doubt for the second Test with a calf problem. England are now likely to field a new-look back three, with Freddie Steward set to start at full-back, Joe Marchant moving to wing and Max Malins retaining his place on the opposite flank. Furbank’s injury is also a setback for the player himself. The 25-year-old has been in good form for England this year, and was hoping to cement his place in the team ahead of the World Cup in France next year. England head coach Eddie Jones is expected to announce his team for the second Test on Thursday.