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Tuqiri won`t risk knee on tour

Monday 13th October 2008

Honest appraisal: Tuqiri won't take risk with knee

Australia wing Lote Tuqiri has clarified that will not take part in their historic end-of-season tour unless he has fully recovered from a niggling knee injury.

The dual international is keen to go with the Wallabies on their six-match trip - which includes a Bledisloe Cup clash with New Zealand in Hong Kong and Tests against Italy, France, England and current Grand Slam winners Wales.

The tour is scheduled to conclude on December 3 with a showdown against George Gregan and the Barbarians at Wembley - but the big finisher's participation is in doubt due to whether his left knee will hold up.

Tuqiri underwent surgery to repair meniscus damage last month and is yet to fully stretch himself in training. And heading into a crucial week of preparation with the Wallabies in Sydney, Tuqiri explained he would be honest about his fitness.

"If it is not right then I won't be taking any risks. If there's any doubt there will be no hesitation in pulling out," he said.