England prop Mako Vunipola will miss the remainder of the Six Nations campaign after damaging left ankle ligaments in the thrashing of France last weekend.
Vunipola will be sidelined for about 10 weeks, the English Rugby Union confirmed on Tuesday.
His absence will be a massive blow to England, who have a decisive match against fellow unbeaten side Wales on February 23 in Cardiff.
Vunipola has been prominent in the impressive victories against Ireland and France.
He was man of the match against Ireland in Dublin, and was having a similar impact against France last Saturday until he limped off in the 44th minute at Twickenham.
He missed the November series because of a calf injury, but his recovery from injury alongside brother and No. 8 Billy Vunipola and center Manu Tuilagi has transformed England into the championship favorite.
“It is obviously very disappointing to lose Mako at this stage, as he is an important player for us but it does provide an opportunity for the team to grow,” England coach Eddie Jones said.
Ben Moon replaced Vunipola on Saturday, and Ellis Genge and Alec Hepburn are also options.