|
Wallabies hit by more injuries
23/08/2005 07:28 - (SA)
Sydney, Australia - The injury-hit Australian rugby team will delay naming its squad for the All Blacks Test in Auckland on September 3 because of new concerns over the fitness of some players.
Forwards Dan Vickerman (shoulder) and David Lyons (groin) are the latest to be hit by injuries and are both unlikely to take on New Zealand at Eden Park.
Wallabies coach Eddie Jones is also awaiting results from medical tests on five-eighths Elton Flatley (blurred vision) and Lachlan MacKay (knee). If cleared, either could start if Matt Giteau fails to recover from a lower back problem.
The Australian flyhalf crisis has Brisbane teenager Scott Daruda, signed by the Perth-based Western Force for the new Super 14 competition in 2006, on standby to make a Test debut.
Clyde Rathbone
Outside back Clyde Rathbone is also receiving intensive treatment for a neck and shoulder injury sustained in the 22-19 loss to South Africa in Perth on Saturday.
Jones indicated that fullback Chris Latham (hamstring) was the most likely sidelined player to return for the Bledisloe Cup match at Eden Park.
"At this stage, Chris Latham is progressing well. He should be available for selection next week," said Jones.
"Mark Gerrard (hamstring) is another one we will have to monitor but he is in some doubt, while Jeremy Paul (neck/shoulder) and Stirling Mortlock (calf) are both unlikely to be available."
The Wallabies will wait to get final advice on the injured players before naming a 26- to 30-man extended squad on Wednesday.
- AP
|
