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Wales sweat on fitness of Dan Biggar and George North ahead of England Six Nations showdown

George North reacts to a thigh injury during Wales' Six Nations win over Rome
Image: George North finished the match despite a haematoma on his thigh

Wales will hope Dan Biggar and George North can shrug off knocks before Saturday's Six Nations showdown against England.

Biggar went off at half-time during Wales' opening win over Italy, while try-scorer North took an early blow to his thigh but stayed on and finished the game.

The Wales squad flew home via chartered flight from Rome on Sunday, with thoughts quickly turning to England after a 33-7 success in the Stadio Olimpico.

No 8 Taulupe Faletau (knee) and lock Luke Charteris (hand) both missed the Italy trip, and a clearer picture on their fitness situation should emerge when Wales reconvene on Tuesday.

Dan Biggar is tackled by Italy flanker Braam Steyn as he kicks downfield
Image: Dan Biggar is an injury concern for Wales after they beat Italy in Rome

Wales interim head coach Rob Howley said: "Dan has taken a bump to his ribs but we will wait for more medical information on that.

"George took an early bump and has a haematoma on his thigh. I am delighted he stayed on. I thought he showed some mental toughness, which is important in games when you come away from home."

Second-half tries from North, fellow wing Liam Williams and centre Jonathan Davies, plus 18 points from full-back Leigh Halfpenny, saw Wales home to a fourth successive win under Howley.

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Howley said: "It is important we start competitions well. We haven't done so since four years ago, really. We can go into the next game with a bit more self-belief and confidence.

"We want to improve in all areas. We will have to put England under more pressure than we did against Italy, so that is going to be the challenge."

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