Foketi impressed during the Wallabies’ last-gasp 30-29 defeat to France in Paris last Saturday. Midfield ace Foketi finished off one of the tries of the year in the 18th minute to give his team a first-half lead.
In a brilliant team effort the Wallabies moved the ball through the backline over 95 metres before Foketi skipped away from the defence to score. However, the Waratahs centre limped off six minutes later with what was described as a shin injury, replaced by Hunter Paisami.
Rennie said post-match the injury was believed to be “significant”, and his worst fears were confirmed by scans. They are yet to name his replacement, leaving Paisami and Len Ikitau as the squad’s only specialist centres.
The tourists had some positive news, however, with prop Allan Alaalatoa (concussion) and fullback Tom Banks (ankle) set to be available against Italy. Having opened the tour with a win over Scotland before the France loss, the Australians will face Italy in Florence on Saturday.
Australia face Wales at the Principality Stadium on Saturday, November 26 at 3.15pm.
