England's prop Joe Marler to miss second All Blacks Test due to foot injury
- England's experienced prop Joe Marler will be absent from the second All Blacks Test.
- Marler sustained a foot injury during the previous defeat against New Zealand.
- England has called up Emmanuel Iyogun as Marler's replacement.
In a thrilling match in Dunedin, England suffered a narrow 16-15 defeat to New Zealand, with prop Joe Marler forced off early due to a foot injury. Scans confirmed Marler's unavailability for the second Test in Auckland, prompting the call-up of uncapped Northampton prop Emmanuel Iyogun as cover. However, Iyogun is unlikely to feature at Eden Park as there are already two specialist looseheads on tour. Meanwhile, New Zealand's scrum-half TJ Perenara is also doubtful for the Auckland Test after appearing to hyper-extend his knee in a collision with captain Scott Barrett. All Blacks coach Scott Robertson mentioned having a standby player ready to join the squad if needed. Perenara, playing his 81st Test, had previously suffered a serious Achilles tendon rupture. Both teams faced challenges with goalkicking, as England's Marcus Smith missed crucial attempts, while All Blacks' Damian McKenzie struggled with time constraints during a penalty goal attempt. England's head coach Steve Borthwick remained positive despite the defeat, praising his team's character and defensive efforts. With Marler ruled out, England will rely on young props Fin Baxter and Bevan Rodd to step up in the front row at Eden Park. Despite the setback, England aims to level the series against the All Blacks, who managed to claw back the lead in the final quarter of the first Test. Captain Jamie George expressed disappointment but highlighted the team's resilience and determination to earn the All Blacks' respect. As the teams prepare for the second Test, both England and New Zealand face uncertainties with key players sidelined due to injuries. The upcoming match in Auckland promises to be another intense battle as England seeks redemption and the All Blacks aim to secure the series victory. Fans eagerly anticipate the clash between these rugby powerhouses, with the outcome hanging in the balance as both teams look to make strategic adjustments and capitalize on their strengths.