Wallabies full-back Tom Wright is set to miss the rest of the season following an injury he sustained in round two of the Rugby Championship.
Wright was removed from the field during the opening minutes of the Springboks’ revenge victory over the Wallabies after going down with a knee injury. He spent the rest of the match watching on in agony and will now be returning to Australia for surgery.
A statement released on social media said: “Scans have confirmed fullback Tom Wright suffered an ACL injury in last night’s Test against South Africa in Cape Town,
“He will return home with the group today to see specialists this week.”
Looking to fill the gap left at 15, Max Jorgensen and Andrew Kellaway are two options that could be considered as full-back replacements.
Meanwhile, Nic White and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii were both concussed during the match, and Taniela Tupou damaged his little finger.
This adds to the long list of injuries within the squad, with Harry Wilson (knee), James Slipper (concussion) and Dylan Pietsch (broken jaw) all injured in the Rugby Championship opener in Johannesburg, with Ben Donaldson ruled out before the game.
Fan response
Wright has been one of the standout players in the Wallabies‘ resurgence in recent months, so he will be a huge loss for the side as they look to build upon their strong openers.
Fans online have expressed their sympathy for the 28-year-old.
Chalyn Rugby wrote: “Wow, we are looking at least 3-6 months here. Just gutted for this man. What a player and deserves more. Recover soon, buddy”
Marshall Brentnall added: “That’s a terrible blow for Tom, the team and all Wallabies fans. Heal well Tom, cracking season. You will be back!”
JB Claims: “Brutal. Worked so hard to become one of the games best. Hope he returns in the same form! Good Luck, Wright”
Julie T: “Ah that really sucks for Tom. Safe travels home to all the team & best wishes to our many players now in recovery from injuries from this short tour. Forces us to build depth but really not fair when we were just starting to get consistent squad selection”