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England utility back Elliot Daly to miss start of Wasps' season

Rugby

Elliot Daly will miss the start of the Aviva Premiership season, with Wasps fearing the British & Irish Lions star risks burnout.

England flyer Daly featured in seven of the Lions' 10 tour matches in New Zealand, playing a pivotal role in the drawn Test series with the All Blacks.

The 24-year-old made 36 appearances in all last term, across Wasps, England and Lions duties.

And rugby director Dai Young admitted Daly will miss Wasps' first two matches of the new Premiership campaign in order to keep him fresh.

"The recommendation has always been five weeks off and four weeks of pre-season," said Young of the rules around resting top stars.

"That leaves Elliot unavailable for the first two games of the season, and from my point of view, that's something we'll adhere to.

"We've done it with all our internationals. Everyone has to have five weeks off, whether they play club, international or whatever.

"We think Elliot needs a rest really, otherwise he's not going to last the season.

"I think you've got to be sensible and put the player first."

Daly made 21 appearances as Wasps ended up losing last season's Premiership final in extra time, while he also clocked up eight Test turns with England.

The versatile back also forced his way into the Lions' starting Test XV as Warren Gatland's side claimed a hugely-creditable drawn series against the world champions.

"Elliot had a fantastic season last season, played a lot of rugby for us as well as international rugby," said Young.

"You've got to look after the players. But it's easy for me to say that because we've only got one [member of the Lions].

"It could maybe be a different position if we had five or six but you have to put the player first and make sure you're doing the right thing.

"The players don't like that [being rested], but it's a bit of a balance."

Wasps will open their Premiership season by hosting Sale at the Ricoh Arena on Sept. 2, before taking on Worcester at Sixways eight days later.

In other news for Wasps, England and Lions flanker James Haskell will remain sidelined until October as he continues to recover from finger surgery while flanker Sam Jones will also miss the start of the campaign as he continues to fight back from the broken leg he suffered in England training last year.

Hooker Tommy Taylor is also sidelined as he continues to recover from knee surgery. He is expected to return around the Christmas period.  

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