Wallabies name new faces in Auckland Test Squad

The Wallabies have named four new faces in their 28-man squad for the final Test of the 2005 Bundaberg Rum Rugby Series and Tri Nations, against New Zealand in Auckland on Saturday 3 September.

Tighthead prop David Fitter, centre Lloyd Johansson, lock Alex Kanaar and flyhalf Lachlan MacKay will all join the squad for the first time in camp in Coffs Harbour on Friday, alongside Test debutant Adam Ashley-Cooper and scrumhalf Matt Henjak.

Daniel Vickerman (shoulder) and David Lyons (groin) are both unavailable for selection and will undergo surgery over the next week, while Chris Latham has also been ruled out with a hamstring injury.

Flyhalf Elton Flatley has at this stage been included in the squad, but with further medical advice still pending on his blurred vision, a decision on his availability is not likely to be made until later in the week.

It’s better news however for Matt Giteau, Mark Gerrard and Clyde Rathbone, with all three players selected in the squad for the Auckland Test.

Wallaby Coach Eddie Jones says while there have been a number of injuries to contend with, and there are still some players in doubt, there are also plenty of opportunities for the new blokes in the squad.

“The injuries have been well documented over the last week or so, but that’s rugby, and it just throws up new opportunities for the team and individual players,” said Jones.

“At this stage, Matt Giteau, Mark Gerrard and Clyde Rathbone are all responding well to intensive treatment, while we will know more about Elton Flatley later in the week.”

“It’s a bit early to say just who will be available when we name the team next Wednesday, but they are all in the squad and will be given every chance to recover and prepare for the Auckland Test.”

With four new faces set to join the Wallabies in Coffs Harbour, Jones says it’s an exciting and challenging time for the team.

“In a strange way it’s quite exciting at the moment. Through circumstance we get the opportunity to bring some new and young talent into the squad and I know they are all keen to make the most of their opportunity,” said Jones.

“We’ve also got just over a week to prepare for the last Test of the Tri Nations. It’s a challenge we are looking forward to and one we are prepared for.”

The Wallabies will assemble in Coffs Harbour on Friday.

Note: New additions in bold.

Unavailable for selection due to injury

Daniel Heenan, Stephen Hoiles, Greg Holmes, Stephen Larkham, Chris Latham, David Lyons, Hugh McMeniman, Stirling Mortlock, Jeremy Paul, Wendell Sailor, Radike Samo, Ben Tune, Josh Valentine, Daniel Vickerman.