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Wales’ Rhys Webb ruled out of Rugby World Cup due to injury

Wales' Rhys Webb lies on the ground injured during the World Cup warm up match v Italy
Image: Wales' Rhys Webb will miss the Rugby World Cup after sustaining the injury in Saturday's warm up match with Italy

Wales scrum-half Rhys Webb has been ruled out of the Rugby World Cup due to a foot injury.

The Welsh Rugby Union have also confirmed Mike Phillips and Eli Walker have been called up into their World Cup squad after losing Webb and full-back Leigh Halfpenny to injury

News of Webb's absence comes less than 24 hours after it was confirmed that Halfpenny would miss the competition after suffering cruciate ligament damage in Wales' 23-19 victory over Italy at the Millennium Stadium. 

"It is extremely disappointing for both Leigh and Rhys," Wales head coach Warren Gatland said.

"They have worked exceptionally hard to establish themselves on the world stage and to prepare for the tournament and we wish them all the best with their recovery.

"After announcing the squad we spoke about the need for players to remain ready for action and is a great opportunity for Mike and Eli.

Leigh Halfpenny is stretchered off at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday
Image: Leigh Halfpenny has also been ruled out of the Rugby World Cup

"It's great that we can call on players of this calibre. To bring Mike's experience into the squad is a bonus along with Eli's exciting talent."

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The WRU also said Webb will undergo further assessments on the foot injury sustained to determine whether he may need to undergo surgery to repair the damage. 

Wales begin their World Cup campaign against Pool A rivals Uruguay on September 20, before clashes with England, Fiji and Australia. 

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