The NSW Waratahs have been dealt a fresh injury blow with Wallabies star Berrick Barnes ruled out of Friday’s Super Rugby clash with the Melbourne Rebels.
Utility back Barnes missed last Saturday’s opening round loss to Queensland with a groin injury but was expected to play against the Rebels in Melbourne.
However he had bad news for Waratahs fans on Tuesday.
“It’s frustrating really … I didn’t think it was going to be an issue this week but after running yesterday (Monday) and being put through a bit of a fitness test it just hasn’t pulled up as well as myself and the medical staff more importantly wanted,” said Barnes, confirming he would miss the AAMI Park clash.
“We just wanted to be 100 per cent right but it isn’t at the moment … the medical staff just said more for preparation of the team that if it wasn’t right by this morning then they weren’t going to take me.”
The playmaker was expected to play at inside centre against the Rebels and his withdrawal gives Tom Carter a reprieve at No.12, after he seemed likely to make way.
Barnes said he was hopeful of lining up against the Highlanders in Dunedin next week.