The Western Force’s injury curse continues with half-back Brett Sheehan ruled out of Saturday night’s clash with Super 14 champions the Bulls in Perth.
Sheehan was named in the starting line-up but was forced out on Friday after failing to fully recover from a hamstring niggle picked up in last weekend’s 14-10 home loss to New South Wales.
Chris O’Young will come into the side to replace him for the winless Force.
Flanker Sam Wykes (corked thigh) and hooker Ryan Tyrrell (neck) were also injured in that match and are also out, while winger Scott Staniforth is expected to overcome a hip complaint and play.
Wallabies David Pocock (finger), Richard Brown (shoulder) and Cameron Shepherd (quad) all continue lengthy injury absences.
“I can’t believe it,” Force captain Nathan Sharpe said.
“It’s sort of got to the point where you come down to training and you are scratching you’re head at who’s left.
“The guys who are coming in are quality players in their own right and it’s just about gelling and getting those combinations going.”
- AAP