Henjak handed Wallabies call-up

Australia coach Eddie Jones has called up ACT Brumbies reserve scrum-half Matt Henjak into his squad for the Wallabies’ first Test against Scotland on June 13 to replace the injured Elton Flatley.

Flatley will miss the two-Test series plus the World Cup final rematch against England after breaking his arm during Queensland’s tour victory over Scotland on Saturday.

“While it’s disappointing for Elton, it does give someone like Matt Henjak an opportunity,” said Jones.

“Matt is a promising player and has been able to learn a lot behind George Gregan over the last couple of seasons.

“He will provide us with some extra depth in the scrum-half position, allowing Matt Giteau and Morgan Turinui to concentrate on the number 12 jersey.”

Jones initially named captain Gregan as the only specialist scrum-half in his 27-man squad, with Chris Whitaker injured and Josh Valentine heading off to play in the Under-21 World Cup.

Utility back Giteau was initially included as cover for scrum-half, fly-half and inside centre but he is now the most likely choice to replace Flatley in what will be an Australian back division dominated by Super 12 champions the ACT Brumbies.

Flatley’s injury will not only give Giteau the chance of a second Test start but also opens the way for Joe Roff to win the nod at full-back ahead of Chris Latham because of his goal-kicking.

Clyde Rathbone is in line for a debut at outside centre with Stirling Mortlock injured and Mark Gerrard could win selection on the wing ahead of Wendell Sailor.

With Gregan and Stephen Larkham linking up in the half-backs, that would leave NSW Waratahs winger Lote Tuqiri as the only member of the backs not from the Brumbies.

Henjak, who started just one game for the Brumbies this year, will link up with the Wallabies squad at their base in Coffs Harbour tomorrow.

“I’m just really excited to get such an opportunity so early on and looking forward to getting into training,” said the Australia A international.

“I’ve learnt a lot behind George over the last couple of seasons and I’m sure that will help me going into my first Wallaby camp.”