Wallabies back-rower Charlie Cale is set to miss the rest of the year after suffering a shoulder injury in the build-up to Sunday's Test against the Springboks.
Cale is set to require surgery after a shoulder subluxation during training in Perth, with Nick Champion de Crespigny coming into the squad as a replacement.
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The 25-year-old has had a history of shoulder injuries, picking up a knock in April that ruled him out for close to two months.
Cale also spent time out with a shoulder issue in 2024, whilst a back injury the following year ruled him out for a significant period.
"Charlie Cale has suffered a shoulder injury in Perth and will return to Canberra to begin his recovery," a Wallabies statement said.
"Nick Champion de Crespigny will join the squad in Perth to help prepare for Sunday's Test against South Africa."
Cale returned to the Test squad in Osaka against Japan, speaking of the emotion of his return after a frustrating period.
"I think it matches the emotion around the first Test but it might even have a bit more just because of the last two years with injuries," he said last month. "I've struggled with injury but finally I'm fit and able to get a couple of games at Super and then been fully training with Joe and Les.
"It sounds funny, but it probably means a little bit more than my first one."
One-time Wallabies skipper Champion de Crespigny is pushing for his first appearance of the year after playing for the Western Force in Super Rugby AUS last week.
"There's a great mix of healthy competition in this squad and I think anyone's ready to step up," flanker Carlo Tizzano said on the squad on Sunday, before Cale's injury.
The Wallabies will continue their preparation in Perth, set to name their team on Friday to face the Springboks.
The South Africans will confirm their side on Tuesday night, with star duo Pieter-Steph Du Toit and Damian de Allende returning home after a physical four-match tour against New Zealand.
