England lose a little magic as James Simpson-Daniel quits due to ankle injury
The 32-year-old won only 10 full caps, as fitness issues set him back at important times
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.English rugby is not so awash with free spirits that it can afford to lose one to premature retirement, but this was the depressing result at Gloucester when the 32-year-old James Simpson-Daniel called it quits.
Far and away the most imaginative attacking runner of his generation – he may have been a little slower than Jason Robinson, but when it came to vision he made the World Cup winner seem myopic – he has failed to recover from a particularly complex fracture-dislocation of the left ankle.
Simpson-Daniel, who moved to Kingsholm straight from school after an age-group career that had senior coaches wondering if they were dealing with a rare case of rugby genius, won only 10 full caps, largely because of repeated outbreaks of orthopaedic trauma – not to mention a struggle with glandular fever – set him back at important times. He was in the selection frame for three World Cups, but missed out each time.
But he was a 24-carat hero at Gloucester and equally revered by rival supporters who recognised talent. “He was unique,” said David Humphreys, the West Country club’s rugby director. “I played against him. Even though he could really hurt you, he was a joy to watch.”
After suffering the injury in an Anglo-Welsh Cup game with Newcastle some 10 months ago, Simpson-Daniel knew his playing future was under threat, and a few days ago he received the specialist advice he dreaded. “They were the last words I wanted to hear,” he said, “but I’ve had a good trot and can’t have any complaints. I’ll take my time in considering my options.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments