Wallabies loose forward David Pocock has been ruled out of the rest of the Rugby Championship after breaking his hand during the 36-20 win over Argentina in Perth.
Wallabies loose forward David Pocock. Photo: Photosport
Pocock was substituted in the 36th minute and while it appeared tactical to allow James Slipper to temporarily replace the sin-binned Scott Sio, the number eight did not return when the Wallabies had their full complement back.
Australian Coach Michael Cheika said the 28-year-old's hand had swollen up after the game.
"He wanted to play through, I had to take him off," Cheika said after the match.
Scans confirmed the break and Pocock will miss the final two games against South Africa in Pretoria on October 1 and Argentina in London the following week.
The Wallabies said It is likely he will return for the final Bledisloe Cup match against the All Blacks in Auckland on October 22.
Melbourne Rebels loose forward Sean McMahon could be considered to replace Pocock after impressing from off the bench against the Pumas but his Super Rugby teammate Lopeti Timani, who made his test debut in the reserves, offers a more bulky number eight option.
- Reuters
