Horwill 'ready' to tackle Boks
Australia captain James Horwill says he's confident he will be fit for next weekend's Rugby Championship match against South Africa in Cape Town, after missing the last two Tests with a left hamstring strain.
Horwill said Saturday on the eve of the Wallabies' departure for South Africa that "the hamstring feels good … I can't see any reason why there would be any problems."
He said it was essential for Australia to build on last weekend's one-point win over Argentina, its first victory of the tournament after two losses to New Zealand and one to South Africa.
Horwill also said he agreed with coach Ewen McKenzie's decision to suspend wing James O'Connor over a reported incident involving alcohol at the Perth airport last week.
O'Connor was escorted from the airport terminal by police after arguing with airline staff while trying to board a flight to Bali, Indonesia, with his girlfriend. The incident occurred a few hours after Australia's 14-13 win over Argentina.
"I fully support Ewen's decision and I guess it's for the best of the team," Horwill said.
"Hopefully it is a moment where he [O'Connor] understands that he might need to change something to get the best out of himself."
Australia will travel to Rosario, Argentina, after the Cape Town match to play the Pumas in the final match of the Rugby Championship on October 5.
The Wallabies need to win both matches to ensure they don't finish last in the four-team tournament.
New Zealand leads the Rugby Championship with 18 points, followed by South Africa with 14, Australia with four and Argentina with two.
SAPA-AP
