The Wallabies brace for a significant setback as first-choice playmaker Carter Gordon is set to miss crucial matches due to a leg fracture. This injury occurred during the recent 28-28 draw against Argentina in Mendoza, where Gordon fell in agony while attacking the line late in the game.

Scans revealed that the 25-year-old will be sidelined for approximately two months, ruling him out of the upcoming Perth Test against South Africa on 26 September and the two-Test Bledisloe Cup series next month. However, there is optimism that he may return in time for the match against England at Twickenham on 8 November.

This injury adds to the challenges faced by Gordon, who has struggled with various injuries since returning to rugby. Ben Donaldson, who started against Los Pumas, found it difficult to make an impact, and he faces competition from Tom Lynagh, who is returning from injury, as well as Declan Meredith and Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, who are also in contention.

Despite the injury woes, the Wallabies' forwards have shown impressive form during a five-game unbeaten streak. Halfback Ryan Lonergan, who ended the match as flyhalf due to Gordon's injury, emphasized the need for improvement:

We know we’ve got to be better than what we were, but we can see the growth.

With the coaching changes under Les Kiss, the team aims to refine their attack and maximize their scoring potential as they prepare for the upcoming challenges.