Palu, Skelton reportedly out of Cup

Australia were today dealt a blow ahead of their crunch World Cup game against England after heavyweight forwards Will Skelton and Wycliff Palu were ruled out of the tournament.

Palu and Skelton were hurt in Sunday’s 65-3 win against Uruguay in Pool A.

James Hanson and Sam Carter have been called up to replace the pair.

Michael Cheika insists Australia are still underdogs for Saturday’s make-or-break World Cup encounter with England despite the beleaguered hosts’ damaging defeat to Wales.

Cheika said he had complete faith in Hanson and Carter to fill the void left by the duo for the remainder of the tournament.

“I am confident they will be able to step up and grasp the opportunity they have been given”.

Fullback Mike Brown gave a stroppy interview to reporters after their three-point loss to Wales last weekend, which has left them in danger of an embarrassing early exit from the World Cup.

“We feel like every game is sudden death because you lose one and you’re in trouble”.

Carter has donned the gold jersey 12 times since debuting in 2014.

Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has challenged England to try to bully Australia again, but insists his forward pack is ready for the challenge.

“It’s been a great tournament so far, though”.

“I don’t think you hide from the situation and pretend something’s not happening”.

Palu’s injury could mean the end of the 33-year-old’s worldwide career, with the No 8 set to play inEurope after the World Cup and become ineligible for a recall.

“When we look at it on video, we’ll probably appeal”.

“We’re pretty lucky in that way”, he said.

The 23-year-old will consult a surgeon on his return to Australia.

“Wycliff has been a remarkable player and it’s more than likely the last game he will play for Australia”. I understand where the ref was coming from too, they’re doing the best for the safety of the game.