Sam Warburton a doubt for Six Nations opener due to shoulder injury

Sam Warburton is struggling to overcome a shoulder injury and may miss the start of Wales’s defence of their Six Nations title.

Warburton, who led Wales to the crown last year and the Lions to glory in Australia last summer, saw a specialist in London yesterday.

Despite the serious concerns over his fitness, the flanker was named in the 32-man squad for the tournament.

However, Phil Davies, the Cardiff Blues director of rugby, has admitted the return of his captain is clouded in uncertainty and the Six Nations — which kicks off on February 1 — could come too soon for Warburton. Davies said: “Sam had an injection last Saturday and the shoulder has settled well but he has seen a specialist in London.

“He is improving all the time and is being assessed to see where he is. He is not available this weekend [Heineken Cup clash against Exeter] but could be back in a week or two.”

Blues prop Gethin Jenkins is also struggling to be fit to face Italy in the opening match after damaging his left knee against Toulon at the weekend.

“It’s the same injury he suffered against Australia [in November] but doesn’t seem to be as bad,” said Davies. “He has had a scan and the feeling is [he could be out] for a few weeks.”