VIDEO: Sting taken out of Wallaby attack
INJURY UPDATE: Australia has lost the sting of their attack, ahead of Bledisloe II – which is also Round Two of the Rugby Championship.
Wallaby star Israel Folau was Sunday ruled out of the trip to Auckland with an ankle injury, in a further blow to Australia after their big loss to New Zealand at the weekend.
Fullback Folau limped off in the 65th minute in the first Test in Sydney, as the All Blacks thumped the Wallabies 38-13.
Wallaby coach Michael Cheika said the 29-year-old had a “small tear in a muscle right down low”, which is “quite rare really, but it was actually just a lot of swelling” and not a long-term injury.
“We’re hopeful he’ll be back for the game in Brisbane against the Springboks [on September 8],” Cheika said.
“I think it’s logical to bring in a wing like [Sefa] Naivalu, as we have [Jack] Maddocks who can play wing and fullback as well as [Tom] Banks who is an out-and-out fullback.
“It’s an opportunity for someone to come into the team.
“I thought Maddocks had some nice touches and he got a taste of what Test footy is all about.
“I would say between himself and Banks, they will be looking to fill that spot this week during training and whoever gets that opportunity, I’m sure will go well.”
Brumbies pair Folau Fainga’a and Rory Arnold, and Rebels centre Billy Meakes will also travel to Auckland to help with the Wallabies’ preparations.
The Wallabies have not won at Eden Park since 1986.
Australian squad:
Forwards: Jermaine Ainsley, Allan Alaalatoa, Adam Coleman, Ned Hanigan, Michael Hooper (captain), Sekope Kepu, Tolu Latu, David Pocock, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Tom Robertson, Izack Rodda, Pete Samu, Rob Simmons, Scott Sio, Lukhan Tui, Taniela Tupou.
Backs: Tom Banks, Kurtley Beale, Bernard Foley, Will Genia, Dane Haylett-Petty, Reece Hodge, Marika Koroibete, Jack Maddocks, Sefa Naivalu, Nick Phipps, Joe Powell, Matt Toomua.
