Wallabies lose winger Dylan Pietsch as flyer returns to Australia

Tue, Nov 12, 2024, 9:21 PM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
England host the Wallabies at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham in an all-time classic

The Wallabies have confirmed Dylan Pietsch will return to Australia after suffering a calf injury during the win over England.

Pietsch limped off early in the second half of their thrilling win at Twickenham in what was thought initially to be a bad cork.

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However, the squad confirmed the injury will keep the new Western Force star out of the rest of the Grand Slam tour, including Monday's (AEDT) clash with Wales.

This sees Queensland Reds and Australia XV vice-captain Josh Flook join the squad after their 10-all draw against Bristol.

"Dylan Pietsch picked up a calf injury against England and will return to Australia to begin his recovery," a team statement said via social media.

"Josh Flook will join the squad in Cardiff."

Pietsch's injury will likely see Max Jorgensen elevated to the starting side, with Samu Kerevi, Harry Potter and Flook in contention to join the bench.

Kerevi is looking for his first appearance since the 2023 World Cup whilst if selected, Potter would become the 18th debutant under coach Joe Schmidt.

Flook provides cover for Pietsch and Hunter Paisami, with the Reds inside centre not initially replaced after he didn't make the trip over to the UK.

Still down a player from the original 34-player squad, Schmidt could still call an additional player from the Australia XV side into camp for the final two games such as Corey Toole if he believes the squad needs further cover.

Meanwhile, Wales are dealing with their own injury issues as winger Mason Grady requires surgery on an ankle injury suffered during their loss to Fiji.

"Mason Grady (Cardiff Rugby) has been released from the Wales senior men's squad," said a statement from the Welsh Rugby Union.

"This is following an ankle injury sustained in Sunday's match against Fiji which requires surgery."

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