Motorsport: Gaunt likely replacement for Murphy

Daniel Gaunt will replace Greg Murphy if the Kiwi great can't race this weekend. Photo / Getty Images

Recuperating New Zealand V8 Supercars driver Greg Murphy is likely to be replaced by compatriot Daniel Gaunt for this weekend's L&H 500 at Phillip Island.

Murphy injured his back while on holiday in Fiji a fortnight ago and required surgery when he returned to Australia, forcing his Castrol EDGE Holden team to seek a substitute driver should he not pass a medical this week.

Murphy was only given a 50 per cent chance of being fit in time for Philip Island though team management were confident we would be available for the marquee Bathurst 1000 from October 7-10.

Gaunt contested the season's first seven events with Lucas Dumbrell Motorsport, finishing all 14 races before losing his ride.

The 25-year-old was to trial at Queensland Raceway today.

"Daniel has raced V8s all year, he finished every race and he's more than capable of doing a good job for the team in difficult circumstances," said team manager Paul Morris.

- NZPA