ZCZC
BSP-08
RUGBYU-AUS-NZL-HOOPER
Wallabies skipper Hooper on track for Bledisloe opener
SYDNEY, Aug 7, 2018 (BSS/AFP) – Wallabies skipper Michael Hooper says he
is confident of being fit to play the opening Bledisloe Cup clash against the
All Blacks after coming through his full first training session since tearing
a hamstring.
Hooper picked up the injury in the final Test against Ireland in June and
was unable to play for the NSW Waratahs during their recent Super Rugby
finals run.
But he completed a full day’s training on Monday with the Test squad and
said he was aiming to be ready for the August 18 clash with New Zealand in
Sydney.
“Hiccups aside, with a week of training, I should be in a good position
next week,” he told Rugby Australia’s website rugby.com.au.
“It’s the first real footy I have played in over six weeks but I am
comfortable in how the injury has progressed in getting here and I have had
great rehab.
“I am putting myself in the best position to get myself right for the first
game.”
Wallabies coach Michael Cheika named an initial squad for the match on
Sunday, with Hooper in it.
Also included was Test veteran Tatafu Polota-Nau, who was rested for the
Ireland series, and England-based back Matt Toomua, who recently confirmed a
move to the Melbourne Rebels.
Six uncapped players also made the grade, including 18-year-old Jordan
Petaia, who shone during a Bledisloe Cup trial game in Sydney on Friday.
BSS/AFP/MR/ 1003 hrs