Test selectors to gamble on Johns
Stuart Honeysett and Margie McDonald
April 18, 2006
AUSTRALIA selectors are prepared to gamble on the fitness of Andrew Johns in order to give him a farewell representative appearance in the Anzac Test in Brisbane on May 5.
The Newcastle halfback damaged ligaments in his left ankle in Sunday's loss to North Queensland. He played the entire game but left the ground on crutches and wearing a protective boot.
Johns was due to have scans today to determine the extent of the damage but that plan has been scrapped. Club officials felt it was unnecessary, and they believe he will miss two games at most.
Australia coach Ricky Stuart recently convinced 31-year-old Johns to play next month's Test, which would be his representative farewell.
Stuart is likely to consider playing Johns even if he is carrying a slight injury.
Stuart was tight-lipped when contacted by
The Australian yesterday.
Chairman of selectors Bob McCarthy said he would give Johns every chance to play his farewell game for the Kangaroos.
"You'd have to," McCarthy said. "If he did come back in two weeks we know he'd be fit. The way football is now we're going to have someone on the bench that can cover a few areas. "
If Johns is unable to return, North Queensland halfback Johnathan Thurston will be in line for his Test debut. Thurston, is the form player of the competition and is pushing for a spot on the bench, will face stiff competition from experienced campaigners such as Penrith's Craig Gower and St George Illawarra's Trent Barrett.
Elsewhere, the Broncos have lost Origin forward Dane Carlaw (knee ligaments) for at least six weeks, which rules him out of Queensland contention for the opening game on May 24.
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The Broncos are expected to recall prop Brad Thorn (knee) and Justin Hodges (ankle). Centre Brent Tate, who has not played since off-season ankle surgery, is a week-to-week proposition.
Panthers skipper Tony Puletua will have scans on his injured ribs tomorrow. His chances of being picked in the Kiwi Test team are uncertain.
The Cowboys were rewarded for beating the Knights by being given the day off training yesterday.
The only injury concern is lock Travis Norton (knee). He is expected to be fit for Saturday's match at Toyota Park against the hapless Sharks.
The Australian