Eales adds to rules frustrations
March 5, 2001

Queensland captain John Eales is confident he can return from injury this week, but is a little unsure as to exactly how to play once he gets on the field.

Eales missed Queensland's 32-29 loss to the Waikato Chiefs in Rotorua on Saturday due to an Achilles injury and is rated a "70-30" chance by team officials of playing in Sunday's game against Auckland at Eden Park.

But it's the confusion over new rules interpretations that have Eales most concerned. Reds coach Mark McBain and Brumbies coach Eddie Jones have already vented their frustration following weekend losses.

The attacking side was penalised nine times for players leaving their feet at the breakdown during the Chiefs versus Reds game and the referee in control of that game, South Africa's Tappe Henning, will control Queensland's game against Auckland.

Henning will go through the match video with McBain and senior Queensland players during the week, after declining an invitation to attend Reds training.

"It is frustrating because you can watch another (Super 12) game and the same thing you're being penalised for is being let go," Eales told AAP. "You just don't know what's happening.

"But the tasks they have given the referees makes it very difficult for them to control. There seems to be a chance of a penalty at every breakdown."

Wallaby coach Rod Macqueen is sure to raise the issue, as will every other Southern Hemisphere delegate, at an International Rugby Board meeting in London this week.

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