AUSTRALIA BACK-ROW David Pocock has been ruled out of Saturday’s international against England, just over a day before the Cook Cup clash at Twickenham.
Pocock was in at No. 8 when Wallaby head coach Michael Cheika named his side on Thursday even though the loose forward was struggling with a neck injury suffered during last week’s 26-7 win away to Italy.
But a further fitness test on Friday saw Pocock sidelined, a team spokesman confirmed to travelling Australian media.
Australia have yet to announce who will replace Pocock, although Pete Samu is the likeliest contender to take his place.
Pete Samu remains a danger for England. Source: AAP/PA Images
England scrum coach Neal Hatley, speaking before Pocock was ruled out told reporters at Twickenham on Friday: “He’s got double the turnovers of any other stealer in tier one this year. A hell of a good player.
Australia will also be without the Kurtley Beale and Adam Ashley-Cooper who have been dropped by coaching staff.
A spokesperson for the team confirmed that two women – including Ashley-Cooper’s sister-in-law – were in their hotel room on the eve of the defeat to Wales.