Australian Rugby
Gerrard set for Wallabies recall
ESPNscrum Staff
July 12, 2011

Melbourne Rebels fullback Mark Gerrard looks set to make a remarkable comeback to the Wallabies side after playing his last Test for Australia back in 2007.

Gerrard, 28, played as first-choice fullback in the Wallabies' opposed training session on Tuesday ahead of Sunday's Test against Samoa in Sydney. Gerrard would come into the Wallabies side at the expense of his future Melbourne Rebels team-mate utility back Kurtley Beale, who has been nursing a knee injury during the Super Rugby season.

Gerrard joined the Melbourne Rebels after spending two years in Japan with second-division side NTT Communications and the 23-cap back is delighted with his decision to return to Australia. "I am very glad I have made the decision to come back. I feel like a kid again going to school for the first time," Gerrard said, talking to the AAP.

Australia coach Robbie Deans has previously spoken of potentially resting some of the Reds squad following their victorious Super Rugby season. This could see the likes of Nick Phipps come into the side, in place of scrum-half Will Genia, for Sunday's clash against Samoa. However, whether Deans carries out his plan remains to be seen as Reds captain James Horwill has already spoken up over his desire to play some part in Sunday's match.

With the Wallabies' first Tri-Nations Test against South Africa following just six days after the game against Samoa, Deans will hope his side comes through the match unscathed. Deans did, however, receive a blow as prop Benn Robinson injuring his knee during training this week. The loose-head will now undergo further tests to determine the extent to his injury.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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