Australia flanker Fraser McReight set to miss start of Rugby Championship

Australia will miss the services of flanker Fraser McReight for the start of the upcoming Rugby Championship campaign due to a thumb injury.

According to Australian publication The Roar, the 25-year-old sustained the injury during the game against Wales and is now expected to be on the sidelines for at least six weeks.

The report further added that McReight initially was set to undergo the surgery at the end of the season but following a consultation with a specialist it was decided that he would go under the knife.

He made his Wallabies debut in 2020 and has featured in 20 Tests.

The news is a significant setback for Joe Schmidt's team, especially since they're already missing Liam Wright, who underwent surgery last week to address a bicep injury.

Australia will be kick-starting their Rugby Championship campaign with a clash against World Champions South Africa at Suncorp Stadium on 10th August following which both the teams will head to Optus Stadium for the second round on 17th August.