BATH have received a major boost with the news that Mike Tindall's ankle injury does not require an operation.

Tindall visited a specialist in London yesterday where it was confirmed that the England World Cup centre had not completely ruptured all of his right ankle tendons.

His rehabilitation time could now be cut and coach John Connolly said: "It has now been confirmed by two surgeons that Mike will not need an operation. It is looking likely that Mike will probably be back within nine or 10 weeks."

YESTERDAY'S RESULT

Zurich Premiership: Saracens 27, Leeds 3.