Rugby: Wallabies game-breaker hurt

Drew Mitchell has been ruled out of Saturday's Tri-Nations test. Photo / Getty Images

Drew Mitchell's tryscoring exploits in his 50th test at Bloemfontein last weekend have had a downside, with the Wallabies wing today ruled out of Saturday's Tri-Nations rugby test against the All Blacks.

Mitchell suffered a hamstring strain as he scored Australia's last try against the Springboks in a match they won 41-39 after Kurtley Beale landed a penalty in the last minute.

Mitchell's hopping action after he touched down was misinterpreted as a post-try celebration before it became clear he had sustained a leg injury.

A tryscorer in the Bledisloe Cup opener in Melbourne in July, Mitchell was later sent off early in the second half of that match after committing two yellow card offences.

Wallabies coach Robbie Deans has several options to pick from although none boast Mitchell's experience or recent match play.

Queensland's Peter Hynes may have the inside running after missing the two-week tour of South Africa with a knee injury.

New South Wales wing Lachie Turner is the other leading candidate while Western Force wing Nick Cummins and Brumbies rookie Pat McCabe are also in the squad.

Western Force utility Cameron Shepherd could also come into consideration as he recovers from a groin injury.

Deans names his side for the third match of the Bledisloe Cup series tomorrow, shortly after the All Blacks team are confirmed.

- NZPA