Wales scrumhalf Rhys Webb has also been ruled out of the World Cup with a midfoot injury.

Webb, like teammate Leigh Halfpenny, picked up a serious injury in Wales' 23-19 victory over Italy in Cardiff last Saturday. 

The Wales Rugby Union announced on Tuesday that the 26-year-old scrumhalf suffered both a knee and foot injury and will miss the tournament as a result. The news comes a day after Halfpenny was also ruled out of action for six months.

'Rhys Webb has sustained a significant midfoot injury ruling him out of the forthcoming World Cup. He will undergo further examination and assessments on both his foot and knee before more details can be announced,' read the WRU statement.

Racing scrumhalf Mike Phillips and Ospreys winger Eli Walker, who were both part of Wales' extended squad, have been recalled as Webb and Halfpenny's replacements. 

'After announcing the squad we spoke about the need for players to remain ready for action and this is a good opportunity for Mike and Eli. 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,' said coach Warren Gatland. 

Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images