The Wallabies might be forced to take on Six Nations champions Ireland without a capped hooker, with Jordan Uelese injured in the Melbourne Rebels’ Super Rugby win over the Blues.
Stephen Moore’s retirement and Australian coach Michael Cheika’s decision to rest Tatafu Polota-Nau meant Uelese, with just 30 Test minutes to his name, was the most-experienced hooker.
The other selections, Reds rake Brandon Paenga-Amosa and Folau Fainga’a from the Brumbies are yet to debut for the Wallabies.
Uelese came off the bench in the second half of the Rebels’ 20-10 win in Auckland and suffered the injury while tackling Blues flanker Jerome Kaino in the 69th minute.
The 21-year-old immediately clutched at his knee and lay prone until he was assisted from the field by trainers.
The injury could mean his Rebels teammate Anaru Rangi gets a call-up.
Ireland also lost their first-choice hooker with skipper Rory Best ruled out this week with a hamstring injury, with Munster No.2 Niall Scannell his replacement.
The first Test is next Saturday in Brisbane.
Timbo (L)
Roar Guru
Surely he will bring Latu in 2nd or 3rd string and a Warratah. Job Done.
Paul D
Roar Rookie
One down :(