Qantas Wallabies fullback Israel Folau has been ruled out of the second Bledisloe Cup Test at Eden Park in Auckland, after suffering an ankle injury in last night’s clash at ANZ Stadium in Sydney.
Melbourne Rebels back Sefa Naivalu will travel with the side to Auckland today as part of an updated 28-man squad.
Qantas Wallabies coach Michael Cheika said: “He’s (Folau) got a small tear in a muscle right down low. Quite rare really but it’s actually not a long-term injury at all, just a lot of swelling. We’re hopeful he’ll be back for the game in Brisbane against the Springboks,” Cheika said.
“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.
“I think it’s logical to bring in a winger in like Naivalu as we have Maddocks who can play winger and fullback as well as Banks who is an out-and-out fullback,” Cheika said.
Brumbies pair Folau Faingaa and Rory Arnold as well as Rebels centre Billy Meakes will meet the side in Auckland to assist preparations in a train-on capacity.
The Wallabies will square off against New Zealand at Eden Park on Saturday night, where they haven’t tasted victory since 1986.
Tickets are on sale now for the 2018 Mitsubishi Estate Rugby Championship with Test matches in Brisbane and the Gold Coast next month. For tickets, visit ticketek.com.au.
