Star Australia No 8 David Pocock should be fit to play in Sunday’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina Wallabies coach Michael Cheika said Tuesday.
The Zimbabwe-born Pocock missed the nerve-jangling 35-34 quarter-final win over Scotland on Sunday because of a calf injury suffered in the final pool game against Wales.
“With regard to Pocock I’m very hopeful he will play, no I’m not hopeful I’m really positive, he will be happier with that answer,” Cheika told a team press conference.
The 27-year-old Pocock, who Cheika has moved from flanker to No 8, would still not be involved in full-on physical contact training on Tuesday, the coach added.
“No he won’t train but he is moving along really nicely and I am really pleased with that,” said Cheika.
Cheika also said first choice prop Scott Sio could make the game as a scan had shown up better than expected news on an injured elbow that forced him to leave the field against Scotland.
“Scott is moving along okay,” said the 48-year-old coach.
“I am really happy how he’s coming along. Scans showed it wasn’t as bad as it could have been.”