ZCZC
BSP-09
RUGBYU-AUS-IRL
Gordon joins Wallabies squad for Irish series decider
SYDNEY, June 18, 2018 (BSS/AFP) – NSW Waratahs scrum-half Jake Gordon has
joined the Wallabies squad for the final Test against Ireland after Will
Genia had surgery on a fractured arm, team officials said Monday.
Gordon returned from Japan on Monday after playing for the Waratahs in an
exhibition game against NEC Green Rockets in Tokyo at the weekend.
The 24-year-old is yet to earn his first Test cap after an initial squad
call-up a year ago.
Meanwhile, Genia is expected to miss six weeks after fracturing his arm in
a collision during the first half of Saturday’s 26-21 second Test loss to the
Irish in Melbourne.
Nick Phipps is expected to start the Sydney Test in Genia’s place after
playing for the final 50 minutes in Melbourne and earning the praise of
Ireland coach Joe Schmidt for a strong defensive effort.
Saturday’s victory marked the Six Nations champions’ first Test win in
Australia since 1979, and sets up a series decider after Australia won the
opening Test in Brisbane 18-9.
BSS/AFP/MR/1240 hrs