Beard facing ‘extended period’ out after surgery

England and Harlequins centre Oscar Beard is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines after undergoing surgery on his injured shoulder.

Beard, who made his debut for England against USA in Washington last summer, sustained the injury in Quins’ Prem fixture against Sale on Boxing Day.

The 24-year-old suffered damage to the labrum – a ring of cartilage – in his right shoulder and had surgery in late January.

Harlequins have given no date for his return but a spokesperson said he faced “an extended period” out, although they are hopeful he will return before the end of the current campaign.

Beard, who made his debut for Quins in April 2021, signed a new deal with the London club in November and has made 85 appearances in total and scored one try this season.