Wednesday’s rugby news has Joe Tomane injured, Folau happy at outside centre, South Africa’s bid for the 2023 World Cup in doubt and Nemani Nadolo suspended for four weeks.
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Tomane Injured
Brumbies winger Joe Tomane could be out for 6 to 10 weeks after damaging his right knee in the Brumbies loss to the Crusaders on Sunday.
Head coach Stephen Larkham confirmed the injury.
“It’s not looking likely (that Tomane will play this weekend),” Larkham said.
“He’s off for another scan right now.
“The physios and the doctors had a look at the time and it looks like there’s some significant damage there to his knee.
“It could be up to that long (six to ten weeks), but again the scans will give us some more information there.”
Captain Stephen Moore is also in doubt for this weekend’s match against the Highlanders after suffering a calf injury.
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Folau Happy at 13
Israel Folau says he is happy with his move from fullback to outside centre for the Waratahs.
“I’ve been happy with the way things are going, but never content … I always want to try and keep improving each week,” Folau said.
“I’m still learning and trying to learn all the detailed stuff about playing 13, but at the moment I’m enjoying the challenge and it’s been great. For me personally, it’s very satisfying.”
Folau admits that he has not thought about his transition into the Wallabies and where he might play.
“I’m trying to make sure I can play the best rugby I can at this level before even looking at anything with the Wallabies. It’s out of my control and we’ll see what happens.”
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SA World Cup Bid
South Africa has banned its rugby federation from bidding or hosting international tournaments for at least a year due to their failure to represent enough black players.
The decision is a major blow for South African rugby as they intended to bid for the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Sports minister Fikile Mbalula made his decision clear in a statement.
“I have therefore resolved to revoke the privilege of Athletics South Africa (ASA), Cricket South Africa (CSA), Netball South Africa (NSA) and South African Rugby (SAR) to host and bid for major and mega international tournaments,” said Mbalula.
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Nadolo Cops 4 Week Ban
Crusaders winger Nemani Nadolo has been banned for four weeks for a dangerous tackle on Brumbies halfback Tomas Cubelli.
The incident went unnoticed during the match, however, he was cited after the match as the incident was deemed to have met the red card threshold.
Nadolo will miss three Super Rugby matches including Reds (away), Highlanders (away) and Waratahs (home).
Nadolo will next be available for the Crusaders’ match against the Blues in Auckland on May 28.
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