Tuqiri, Palu just 50-50
Sun, 29 Jun 2008 19:06
Wallaby coach Robbie Deans on Sunday rated No.8 Wycliff Palu and wing Lote Tuqiri as just 50-50 chances of playing for the Australia in next Saturday's second Test against France in Brisbane.
Palu and Tuqiri, who lasted just 29 minutes before succumbing to a knee injury in the Wallabies' 34-13 win over the French in Sydney at the weekend, were both better than expected on Sunday, but remain doubtful.
"The news on them was encouraging," Deans told reporters.
"At first I thought they would not be able to be considered. It appears they haven't been ruled out yet, so there's a possibility they'll be available for selection."
Deans said Tuqiri's knee "has settled quite quickly, so he's hopeful it might not be too much of an issue.
"Cliffy had some discomfort in his shoulder. He's had a precautionary X-ray. There's nothing in there which will prevent him from pushing on."
Deans said he was hopeful the duo would train by Thursday.
One player definitely out is prop Matt Dunning, who has undergone minor surgery for a calf injury.
AFP
