Australia have suffered a quite evident setback after Wallabies flyhalf Carter Gordon was ruled out for up to two months. The news of the athlete, who was ruled out due to a broken leg, came with a blow to the team’s preparations for a demanding international schedule.
Gordon sustained the injury during Australia’s 28-28 draw as they played against Argentina in Mendoza. The match, which was held on September 6th, was where the 25-year-old was hurt during the 70th minute. In this dramatic contest, the Wallabies were unfortunately unable to secure victory despite Argentina being reduced to 13 players during the closing stages.
The injury of the talented athlete comes at a highly difficult time for Australia and new head coach Les Kiss. Gordon had emerged as the preferred option at flyhalf, a position that has presented challenges for the Wallabies in recent years. His absence will now force the coaching staff to reconsider their options ahead of several major fixtures.
Australia, a Commonwealth country is scheduled to face reigning world champions South Africa in Perth on September 27 before taking on New Zealand in home-and-away Tests in October. The Wallabies will then travel to Europe for the continuation of the Nations Championship in November, meaning Gordon could miss a crucial period of the international season.
The latest injury comes as another frustrating chapter in Gordon’s career, as the inspiring young athlete has already been interrupted by several setbacks physically before as well. He missed Nations Championship matches against France and Italy earlier this year because of a calf problem, while previous injuries have also limited his playing opportunities.
Gordon had only recently got back to playing rugby union after a brief spell in rugby league with the Gold Coast Titans. His time in the 13-man code was also interrupted by a rare spinal condition, which only granted him the opportunity to make only one appearance before returning to the sport where he initially established himself as one of Australia’s promising young playmakers.
Even though there is a disappointment surrounding Gordon’s injury, Australia’s recent form under Kiss has provided encouragement. The Wallabies continue to be unbeaten in four Tests since the coach took charge following the July internationals, making suggestions that the squad has begun to develop momentum under its new leadership.
However, the upcoming matches will provide a much greater examination of Australia’s progress. South Africa and New Zealand represent two of the strongest sides in world rugby, and losing an increasingly important playmaker will test the Wallabies’ depth and adaptability.
The draw in Mendoza also exposed areas Australia will need to improve. After taking an early lead, the visitors allowed Argentina back into the contest and ultimately failed to capitalize on their numerical advantage late in the match.
For Gordon, the immediate focus will be recovery. The athlete must focus on giving his body the rest it needs in order to come back stronger than ever before so that he can go back to being an asset for his country. His injury is particularly unfortunate given that he had begun to establish himself under Kiss and appeared to be gaining confidence after previous disruptions to his career.
In the meantime, Australia must quickly find a solution before their next international challenge begins. With the Springboks and All Blacks waiting, the Wallabies face a defining period in their season without one of their key playmakers; however, it is undoubted that the players will strive to make Gordon proud until he returns again.
