Western Force forward Hugh McMeniman will be available for Wallabies selection in the upcoming Rugby Championship after being cleared of a serious neck injury.
McMeniman was taken to hospital on Saturday night after having his neck crunched in a breakdown collision during the Force’s 21-15 Super Rugby victory over the Brumbies.
Scans cleared McMeniman of any major damage, and he was released later that night.
McMeniman, who suffered a serious shoulder injury during the season, failed to notch any game time during the recent series against the British and Irish Lions.
But his aggression, grunt and experience could prove to be a vital asset for new Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie, who took over from Robbie Deans earlier this month.
McKenzie will take charge of the Wallabies for the first time in the August 17 clash with New Zealand in Sydney, with the return bout against the All Blacks scheduled to take place in Wellington a week later.
In more good news for the Force, scans also cleared Sam Wykes of any serious damage after the lock limped off with an ankle injury.
The Force finished the season in 13th spot on the table, with just four wins and a draw to show from 16 rounds.
But they can take heart that their wins were against quality opponents, with the Brumbies, Reds and Crusaders all falling victim to the Perth-based franchise, as well as an All Blacks-laden Highlanders outfit.