Australian lock Mark Chisholm looks set to miss the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand after he was sidelined for the rest of the season by a knee injury he sustained in a Super Rugby game.
Chisholm, almost certain for the Wallabies World Cup squad said: “It's devastating, it's absolutely devastating. I'm in shock. The World Cup is up in smoke now.”
The 29-year old, heading to French club Bayonne next season, has played 58 tests for his country but ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament playing for the ACT Brumbies.
“That's a disappointing way to end -especially because of the things I wanted to achieve this year."
Chisholm has been one of the stars of the Super 15 season and has been a regular in the national set-up since making his debut in 2005.
The news comes as a huge blow to coach Robbie Deans, who may also be without forwards Richard Brown and Rocky Elsom as well as wing Drew Mitchell who broke his leg in March.
Fiji Injuries
Fiji have also suffered a double blow ahead of the World Cup with Leinster’s Fijian full-back Isa Nacewa and Jone Qovu both pulling out of the tournament.
Nacewa, a full-back, has had a successful season having won the Heineken Cup with Leinster, but will now miss the showpiece event in New Zealand citing personal reasons.
"My pregnant wife and my twin girls are my number one priority at the moment, however I wish the Fiji team and management all the best in the exciting year that follows and especially at the Rugby World Cup," said Nacewa.
"Fiji has a competitive team at the World Cup and one that will go a long way."
Nacewa's compatriot has Jone Qovu also confirmed his absence from the tournament
"My wife is pregnant and my main focus now is looking after her," said the number eight, "I am at ease with this decision as I know there are more than enough players around who can replace me."
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