Another Reds back struck down

 

Turner joins wing Dom Shipperley and fullback Aidan Toua on the sideline, who have also been ruled out with injury in recent weeks.

 

The 15-cap Wallaby has scored two tries in five appearances for the Reds this season, playing on both wings and at fullback. 

 

A regular starter with the Brisbane-based in 2014, Turner missed last weekend’s match against the Western Force due to an ankle complaint and had surgery to correct the problem on Tuesday.

 

The former Waratah is expected to be available for selection in time for the Reds’ home clash with the Rebels in Round 14 on May 17.

 

Reds head coach Richard Graham said the absence of Turner’s experience in the back three would be a loss for the team.

 

"It is disappointing to lose Lachie," Graham said. 

 

"He has been playing very well and has offered some versatility among the back three.

 

"He suffered a fracture and dislocation of his ankle in early 2013. 

 

"Unfortunately some cartilage has come loose in the same ankle and is irritating the joint."

 

Turner joins several other Reds in the recovery room, including flank Liam Gill (hamstring – five weeks), prop Ben Daley (knee – two weeks), centre Samu Kerevi (ankle – two weeks), wing Chris Kuridrani (ankle – five weeks), Shipperley (hip flexor – two weeks) and Toua (pectoral – 12 weeks).

 

Fortunately for the Reds, the loss of Turner is offset by the return of 20-year old outside back Chris Feauai-Sautia, who has recovered from a hamstring injury. 

 

"We have a few boys out with injury at the moment, but we are fortunate to have Chris [Feauai-Sautia] and Saia [Fainga’a] returning from injury and available for selection this week. 

 

"We’ve obviously still got some depth within our squad, with a lot of the younger group having been exposed to the Reds A program," Graham added.