Smith added: "We are all absolutely devastated for him. I've got everything crossed that the scans say it is not too bad, but it is not looking brilliant. He is absolutely devastated.

"He has been a massive part of Bath and pushing them forward, and a massive part of this England team. I don't think he has played below a seven or eight out of 10 ever for either his club or his country.

"We have just got to get around him. I think as team-mates, we've got to be good friends to him now and look out for him because it is going to be a tough time for him."

England head coach Steve Borthwick, meanwhile, said Lawrence would have consultations with the "very best people" and receive the "very best care".

Despite losing Lawrence, who has impressed in the Six Nations and cemented his position in England's midfield, Borthwick's side scored seven tries to claim a 47-24 bonus-point victory.

England move up to second in the table and remain in contention to win the title, though France are in pole position and can lift the trophy with a maximum return in their final game against Scotland.