Following his red card against Ireland, England’s number eight Billy Vunipola will miss England’s World Cup opener against Argentina.

On Saturday, he was given a yellow card for a high challenge on Andrew Porter of Ireland.

If he completes the World Rugby coaching programme on tackling, Vunipola’s ban can be reduced to two games.

This Saturday, England will play its final warm-up game against Fiji.

On the following day, England will play Argentina in the World Cup in France.

Vunipola is the only specialist number eight selected in England’s 33-man World Cup squad, which means Borthwick will have to look for alternatives during the Fiji game.

After World Rugby successfully appealed against the decision to overturn Farrell’s red card against Wales on 12 August, Borthwick will also be without his captain for England’s first two pool games.

In both of England’s warm-up games, Vunipola has been sent off for high tackles due to rugby’s new ‘bunker’ review system.

Following a high tackle on Taine Basham, Farrell became the first to receive a yellow card.

Danny Care, England’s scrum-half, says the team has been working on tackle technique every day to improve their discipline.

Referees were supported in making correct decisions with the bunker system during the Summer Nations Series.