Rugby World Cup 2011: Australia wait on injured centres
Last updated on .From the section Rugby Union
Australia will wait to see how injuries to Rob Horne and Pat McCabe settle down before deciding whether to call up replacements to their World Cup squad.
Horne fractured a cheekbone and McCabe suffered a dislocated shoulder in the 67-5 win over the United States.
But Australia coach Robbie Deans said Horne's injury was a "minor displacement", adding that McCabe had only partially dislocated his shoulder.
Deans confirmed that veteran back Matt Giteau is a possible replacement.
"He's obviously in the frame for a potential call-up, absolutely. He was in the 40 [pre-tournament squad]," said Deans.
"We won't be making any decisions in probably the next 48 hours. We'll make sure that we're fully aware and fully informed before we move."
Horne and McCabe were joined by Anthony Faingaa (head knock), Wycliff Palu, Kurtley Beale (both hamstring) and Adam Ashley-Cooper (ankle) in needing treatment against the United States.
Deans reported that Faingaa, who was taken off on a stretcher at the end of the game, "can recall everything, including the moments leading up to the tackle, so that's a great sign".
He added: "But it's not something that we mess around with so we'll monitor him and just make sure he's fully recovered before he re-enters the fray."
Australia already have injury concerns over Digby Ioane (thumb), David Pocock (back), James Horwill (shoulder) and Scott Higginbotham (back), but Deans reported that they are all "progressing well".
The Wallabies' next match is against Russia in Nelson on 1 October.
- For the latest on the 2011 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand visit our breaking news and gossip page.
