The Wallabies appear to be on the brink of facing a situation they have been fearing throughout the World Cup—the potential absence of one of their key players, fullback Kurtley Beale, in the crucial match against the All Blacks this Sunday.
At the outset of the campaign, many believed there were just four players deemed absolutely essential for the Wallabies—Beale, halves Will Genia and Quade Cooper, along with the ball-stealing flanker David Pocock.
Even the inspirational captain James Horwill was not considered among those indispensable players, especially with a seasoned veteran like Nathan Sharpe available, although this viewpoint likely changed following Horwill’s commanding performance against the Springboks.
The team’s loss in the pool round to Ireland also placed Stephen Moore on that essential list, highlighting how critical his presence is during scrums when he was absent that night.
Moreover, after his composed goal-kicking performance on Sunday, it’s hard to dispute that James O’Connor has also earned the label of “indispensable.”
Currently, it remains uncertain if Beale will be sidelined against the All Blacks.
Medical scans have indicated a minor hamstring tear sustained during the match against the Boks, and the Wallabies’ medical team is tirelessly working to prepare him for the game.
