Wallabies count costs of a tough tour
Mon, 01 Dec 2008 12:11
Wallaby coach Robbie Deans was left counting the cost of a tough five-week, six-match tour on Monday as Australia prepared for their final outing on this year-end trip.
The Wallabies will face a star-studded Barbarians team at the Wembley Stadium on Wednesday, but Deans will almost certainly be forced to field a makeshift team.
Deans revealed on Monday that he will be without the services of Peter Hynes (eye), Stirling Mortlock (concussion) and Nathan Sharpe (broken thumb) - who all suffered injuries in the 18-21 loss to Wales at the weekend.
Also doubtful for the encounter against the BaaBaas are Mark Chisholm (cheekbone), Hugh McMeniman (head knock), Richard Brown (finger) and Quade Cooper (finger).
Deans is likely to name a much-changed team that will feature fringe players such scrumhalf Brett Sheehan, lock Peter Kimlin and teenage sensation James O'Connor.
"We're obviously looking to blokes who are fresh. Anyone who is fit," Deans said.
"When we name the team, we're going to give everyone access essentially. For good reasons; it's been a big stretch. Everyone's worked equally as hard.
"Kimlin will have a jersey on, which he is pretty excited about. Brett will have a jersey on, we'll wait and see what number. James will have a jersey on.
"They've all worked hard. They've been patient to that end. They've all chipped in and done their bit."
The Wallabies will be up against a world-class, all-star BaaBaas cast featuring eight members of South Africa's World winning squad - Percy Montgomery, Bryan Habana, Jean de Villiers, Francois Steyn, Fourie du Preez, John Smit, Bakkies Botha, Johann Muller and Schalk Burger.
Not to be outdone will be the New Zealand contingent of All Black captain Richie McCaw, Joe Rokocoko, Rico Gear, Chris Jack and Jerry Collins.
Newly-crowned International Rugby Board player of the year Shane Williams and former Australian captain George Gregan are also in the BaaBaas squad.
Deans said the Wallabies were treating the match seriously without stressing over the outcome.
"We're wearing the jersey so to that end it's important. It's important to the individuals," he said.
"But the reality is, it's not a Test match. So the shackles will be off to some extent.
"It's a tricky situation. It's a genuine tricky situation because you're representing your country and you're representing yourself and you're up against a world XV who is uninhibited and probably pretty excited about expressing themselves.
"So it's not easy. But, having said that, it's a great opportunity."
* Will the Wallabies cope with the BaaBaas?
