Dunning joins Wallaby injury list

Australia’s dismal run of injuries continued on Friday when NSW Waratahs prop forward Matt Dunning failed to complete training.

Dunning, who left the field midway through the session with a lower back complaint, will be monitored over the coming days.

Nic Henderson will join the squad in Coffs Harbour on Saturday morning although Wallaby coach Eddie Jones said later the inclusion of Henderson was a precautionary measure.

“Nic was due to play club rugby for the Canberra Vikings on Saturday against Gordon, but he will fly up to Coffs Harbour in the morning, as cover for Matty Dunning,” Jones said in a statement.

“Matty just felt a little bit of discomfort in his lower back during the session this afternoon, and while we’re confident he will be ok, Nic will come in as a precaution.”

A number of players were rested from training on Friday, with fly-half Matt Giteau the most serious with a lower back injury.

Mark Gerrard (hamstring), Clyde Rathbone (neck/shoulder), Matt Rogers (knee), Lote Tuqiri (knee), Morgan Turinui (lower back), and Phil Waugh (virus) all didn’t train, while hooker Stephen Moore also pulled up short with a knock to the lower leg.

“We had to rest a few guys today, but I was really pleased with the enthusiasm, especially from the new blokes in the squad,” Jones said.

“Of the players who didn’t train today, Matt Giteau is in the most doubt and we should know more about his availability on Sunday.

“As for the other guys we’ll just monitor each one on a case by case basis.”

The Wallabies will name their team to play New Zealand in Auckland on Wednesday.