26 Oct 2008

Tuqiri cleared for Wallabies Spring tour

5:52 pm on 26 October 2008

The Australian rugby star Lote Tuqiri has been cleared to go on the Wallabies Spring tour.

But coach Robbie Deans has warned the powerful winger would be sent home if he suffered a fitness setback.

Tuqiri and No.8 Wycliff Palu, both of whom are recovering from knee injuries, will leave Australia with the rest of the 34-man squad tomorrow.

Deans says Tuqiri wouldn't be considered for next Saturday's Bledisloe Cup match against New Zealand in Hong Kong and rated Palu unlikely.

Tuqiri, who underwent knee surgery several weeks ago, resumed running a week ago.

Robbie Deans says Lote is a wee way away from playing and they'll just have to keep monitoring him.

Following the Bledisloe clash, Australia play matches against Italy, England, France, Wales and the Barbarians.