Stannard on track for Commonwealth Games trip

Tue, Apr 10, 2018, 7:46 AM
Beth Newman
by Beth Newman
James Stannard in action for the Aussie Sevens. Photo: Getty Images
James Stannard in action for the Aussie Sevens. Photo: Getty Images

Aussie Sevens veteran James Stannard appears to be en route to the Commonwealth Games, just nine days after being released from hospital.

On Monday, Stannard made his first appearance at Sevens training since a one-punch attack left him with a fractured skull on Good Friday, talking to teammates and observing the session.

Stannard has already been ruled out of playing in the Games, with his recovery the main priority, but the halfback has expressed a desire to be a part of the tournament in a supporting role for the team.

The 35-year-old has been undergoing medical monitoring since his injury and it appears he has been cleared to go to the Gold Coast.

Stannard posted a picture on Instagram on Tuesday of his daughters on the back of his ute with the caption ‘Road Trip @Commgamesaus’.

James Stannard posted this to his Instagram story on Tuesday. Photo: InstagramThe remainder of Australia’s team will arrive on Gold Coast on Wednesday, ahead of the opening day of men’s competition on Saturday.

Stannard has already been a source of motivation for the team, one of its most valuable members on and off the field, and his presence will surely be a boost for the side.

Stand-in skipper Jesse Parahi hinted at the possibility of Stannard being able to be with the team on the Gold Coast, when he spoke last week about the team’s preparation.

Usual Sevens skipper Lewis Holland will be travelling with the team despite being ruled out with a hamstring injury.

Stannard’s replacement has not yet been named by the Aussies, with a handful of youngsters from Australia’s Hong Kong Sevens squad in the mix.

The Aussies face Samoa, Wales and Jamaica in their pool clashes at the Commonwealth Games.

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