Wallabies’ Carter Gordon sidelined with leg fracture
Injury sidelines Gordon
The Wallabies are preparing to be without their primary playmaker, Carter Gordon, for upcoming matches, including the Bledisloe Cup and a fixture against South Africa. Gordon sustained a leg fracture during the recent 28-28 draw with Argentina in Mendoza. Scans conducted after the match confirmed the injury, which is expected to keep the 25-year-old flyhalf off the field for two months.
This injury means Gordon will miss the Wallabies‘ Perth Test against the Springboks on 26 September, as well as the two-Test Bledisloe Cup series scheduled for next month. There is a possibility he could return in time to face England at Twickenham on 8 November.
This marks another setback for Gordon, who previously dealt with a significant back injury that impacted his NRL appearance and has experienced various leg issues since his return to rugby approximately a year ago. Despite these challenges, Gordon had established himself as the first-choice playmaker under coach Les Kiss.
Impact on squad selection
In Gordon’s absence, Ben Donaldson started at flyhalf against Los Pumas, his first start in that position in two years. Donaldson now faces competition to retain the jersey. Tom Lynagh, the Reds flyhalf, is anticipated to return from a long injury layoff in Super Rugby AU on Saturday against the Western Force, which could add to the competition for the role.
Other players who could contend for a spot include Declan Meredith, who featured in three Tests this year and was part of the squad for the Argentinian tour. Harry McLaughlin-Phillips is also a potential candidate, expected to play for the Force in the pre-season competition. Additionally, Test veterans James O’Connor (Force) and Bernard Foley (NSW Waratahs) are set to return to Super Rugby Pacific next year, both with aspirations for the World Cup, though they will not participate in Super Rugby AU.
The Wallabies‘ forwards have shown strong form, contributing to a five-game unbeaten run. However, Gordon’s injury, coupled with the performance of fullback Tom Wright and a perceived lack of impact from centre Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, raises questions for the team as they approach upcoming critical matches under Kiss‘s leadership.
Coach Kiss on the team’s performance and outlook
Following the draw with Argentina, Wallabies coach Les Kiss expressed disappointment about not securing a win, despite clinching the series victory after winning the first Test by six points. Kiss noted that achieving the trophy was a primary objective for the team’s trip. He acknowledged mixed feelings about the result, stating that while they accomplished their goal of winning the series, there are areas of their game that require improvement to become more robust.
Kiss reflected on the team’s inability to capitalise on opportunities, particularly during the final 13 minutes of the match when they had a two-man advantage after Lucio Cinti and Santiago Carreras received yellow cards. Despite earning a penalty try during this period, the team could not extend their lead further. He pointed to fundamental errors, such as a pass that went awry, as factors that prevented them from taking control of the game.
Regarding Gordon’s injury, Kiss stated that they would not have full information until scans were completed. He mentioned that Gordon sustained a blow to his lower leg from contact. The coach anticipated having more details upon the team’s return to Australia. Looking ahead to the match against the Springboks, Kiss emphasised the importance of preparation over the next two to three weeks, recognising they are facing the top-ranked nation in the world. He believes the extended rest period for the players, allowing them to return home and refresh, will be beneficial for their preparation for the Perth camp.
Halfback Ryan Lonergan, who filled in at flyhalf after Gordon’s injury, also commented on the team’s progress. He acknowledged the need for improvement but highlighted the growth within the squad. Lonergan expressed confidence that if the team can refine their game on both offense and defence, they have a strong chance against the Springboks. He credited former coach Joe Schmidt for providing a solid foundation and noted that the continuity in the team, along with adjustments introduced by Les Kiss, has elevated their attacking potential, suggesting they have more points in them to convert.
Source: theguardian.com
