Karmichael Hunt’s chances for a Test debut against England have been dashed, by an ongoing groin injury.
Hunt missed large parts of training in the opening two weeks of the tour, after being unavailable for the Reds in their two most recent Super Rugby outings as well.
Wallabies coach Michael Cheika hinted last Thursday that Hunt might have to undergo treatment in Queensland, but his absence at Monday’s gym session confirmed the end of his series.
“There’s still a long way to go this season, still plenty of footy to play,” Cheika said at the time.
“He wants to be at his best so he can fulfil his potential, which is very important - you play in the Australian jersey, you want to be able to play to your maximum and you don’t want to be letting anyone down because the whole country is counting on you.”
While Hunt is out of the series, the Wallabies are more hopeful on the fitness of lock Rob Simmons, whose night was ended against England after a back injury.
The lineout general will train later in the week, with his conditions being closely monitored.
In the most positive news of all, winger Rob Horne appears to be out of the woods after a concussion in the opening Test.
Horne’s absence forced a major reshuffle of the Wallabies backline, putting pressure on Michael Cheika’s bench balance with six forwards and two backs.
