ENGLAND could find themselves facing the same selection dilemma as Wales, who will be without their first choice out-half Arwel Thomas, for next week's Triple Crown decider at Cardiff Arms Park. Northampton's Paul Grayson is doubtful due to a hip injury, while, Thomas, the Swansea number 10, has been ruled out because of damaged knee ligaments.

Grayson's injury, which he received while trying to drop a goal with his left foot during Tuesday's 22-6 League defeat at Gloucester, threatens to deprive England of a prolific goal kicker who has scored 133 points in his eight internationals.

The selectors may have to turn to Mike Catt, who was on the bench in the 23-20 defeat by France, or perhaps give a first cap to either Alex King (Wasps) or" Mark Mapletoft (Gloucester).

"Paul's hip muscle has been, torn and there is internal bleeding but if it's just that he has a fighting chance for Cardiff," said Ian McGeechan, Northampton's director of rugby, yesterday. Grayson is certain to miss next Sunday's League One match against Sale at Haywood Road.

England, who name a squad of at least 24 players today, will probably announce their team for the Wales game next Tuesday after coach Jack Rowell has assessed the form and fitness of players taking part in this weekend's League programme.

Both of England's half-back positions will come under close scrutiny, albeit for different reasons: Andy Gomarsall's unsatisfactory decision making against the French may have tilted the balance towards the Leicester scrum-half Austen Healy, who won his first cap as substitute in the recent win over Ireland.

The loss of Thomas could open the door for the return of Jonathan Davies to the Five Nations championship after a nine-year absence the 33-year-old Cardiff star has recovered from a rib injury.

Alternatively the Welsh selectors may decide to restore Neil Jenkins to the out-half after a successful run of half a dozen internationals at full back. The Wales team is expected to be named on Monday