The Wallabies are facing the possibility of losing Will Skelton for the entirety of the 2026 season due to concerns that the influential lock may have ruptured his Achilles tendon while playing club rugby in France.
Skelton was forced to leave the field during the first half of a Top 14 match over the weekend, where his team, La Rochelle, succumbed to a 26-15 defeat against Bayonne.
“We suspect an Achilles tendon rupture,” said La Rochelle assistant coach Remi Tales.
Will Skelton of La Rochelle. Sportsfile via Getty Images
“It’s challenging for a player of his calibre, considering the dedication he’s shown recovering from his previous calf injury. We’re all supporting him and hope for a speedy recovery, as he is vital for us.”
Skelton shared a snapshot on Instagram showing his right foot in a moon boot.
The caption read “C’est la vie,” which translates to “that’s life,” while he enjoyed a McDonald’s meal with his family.
Will Skelton’s Instagram post following his Achilles injury. Instagram
The 33-year-old is regarded as one of Australia’s top players, showcasing his significance with tenacious performances against the British and Irish Lions last year.
Since debuting for the Wallabies in 2014, Skelton has made only 37 appearances, largely due to his relocation to Europe in 2017.
Eddie Jones surprisingly appointed him as the Wallabies captain for the ill-fated 2023 Rugby World Cup, but he only participated in one match after sustaining a calf injury during training.
Will Skelton at the Rugby World Cup against Georgia. Chris Hyde via Getty Images
Prior to this latest injury, Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt noted that Skelton was crucial to plans for the 2027 World Cup.
“He’s an absolute giant, isn’t he? A remarkable physical presence, yet very agile and skilled, with excellent rapport within the team,” Schmidt remarked.
“Plus, he takes immense pride every time he dons the gold jersey. His eagerness to contribute is commendable.”
Jeremy Williams and Nick Frost filled the starting lock positions in Australia’s most recent Test against France.
Schmidt is set to guide the Wallabies in July during home Tests against Ireland, France, and Italy as part of the inaugural Nations Championship.
He will then hand over coaching duties to Les Kiss, whose first match in charge will be against Jones’ Japan in Osaka on August 8.
Compiled by SportArena.au.
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