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The Brumbies’ win over the Highlanders has come at a cost, with Stephen Larkham’s men losing three influential players, including Wallabies star Len Ikitau, ahead of an important run of matches in Australia.
He isn’t the only player to be ruled out of Friday’s clash against Moana Pasifika either, with outside back Andy Muirhead also suffering a knee injury that will see him miss the next three fixtures.
Wallabies prop Blake Schoupp will also miss the home clash against Moana Pasifika, but the 25-year-old may be back in time to take on arch-rivals the Waratahs on April 6.
The update that Schoupp could return ahead of their bye will be a relief to many because it was feared last year’s breakout star might miss a large chunk of the season after coming off the field after 34 minutes during the 27-21 win in Dunedin with a shoulder injury.
Indeed, Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham told reporters that “initial thoughts are it is pretty bad”.
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The Brumbies hope Blake Schoupp could be fit to take on the Waratahs after suffering a shoulder injury during their win over the Highlanders at Forsyth Barr Stadium on March 16, 2024. (Photo by Joe Allison/Getty Images)
But a Monday afternoon scan revealed it was an AC issue, which is welcomed news for the Brumbies who are still without inspirational skipper Allan Alaalatoa.
Larkham had earlier told reporters that Ikitau and Muirhead were also set to miss the next couple of weeks with knee ligament issues.
“Andy Muirhead came off with a bit of blood, but also picked up a knee injury as well and is most likely not available this week and most likely out for a couple of weeks,” Larkham said.
“Len Ikitau, also with a knee, is probably slightly worse than Andy, so not expecting him to be right this week nor next week.”
The absence of the trio will stretch the Brumbies’ depth ahead of an important string of matches last year’s semi-finalists will have targeted heading into their bye.
With Schoupp sidelined, Larkham will likely promote James Slipper back into the starting side for Schoupp, while Fred Kaihea and Harry Vella are vying for their first minutes of the year.
Ollie Sapsford will likely be recalled to the starting side, while Hudson Creighton and Declan Meredith will both likely feature prominently too.
In better news, Larkham said Tom Hooper was “100 per cent fit” despite initial fears around an eye socket injury.
Len Ikitau will miss up to a month of action with a knee injury. (Photo by Joe Allison/Getty Images)
The Brumbies aren’t taking Moana Pasifika lightly after the Super Rugby newbies surprised the Western Force in Perth to register their second win of the season.
“They’ve had two wins this season, they’re playing much better rugby this year than they did last year,” Larkham said.
Elsewhere, the Reds will be without Isaac Henry for the rest of the season after the rising centre suffered a devastating knee injury against the Rebels last weekend.
“This has been some of the most enjoyable rugby I’ve been involved in for a long time, so there’s double disappointment to miss out on what is still ahead for the Reds,” Henry said in a statement.
Hunter Paisami is expected to return for the Reds after missing the past fortnight following a concussion suffered against the Hurricanes.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.