Beale 'touch and go' for semi-final

Australia full back Kurtley Beale is a serious doubt for Sunday's semi-final clash against the All Blacks at Eden Park.

Beale strained his hamstring towards the end of the Wallabies' 11-9 quarter-final win over the Springboks last weekend.

The 22-year-old is awaiting the outcome of a scan to determine whether he will be available to face New Zealand in Auckland.

"We're going to do everything we can to get him to the starting line, but as yet we haven't made that call," said Australia media manager Matt McIlraith, who added that Beale was "touch and go" for Sunday.

Beale's teammates say losing him would be a major blow, but one which they could adapt to.

"It's not something you can dwell on and worry about. He's a world-class player, but with the depth that we have in our backline, we'd be able to cope," said scrum half Will Genia.

Understudy choices

Centre Adam Ashley-Cooper said: "He'll be a massive loss for us because Kurtley provides so much to the team, not only in attack but just in the mood and excitement of the group. We certainly have our fingers crossed for him."

If forced to find a replacement at full back, the Wallabies could slot either James O'Connor, Ashley-Cooper or Quade Cooper into the role.

"I've played my best football where I've actually been changed (positions) that week, so I'll welcome that challenge if it occurs," said Ashley-Cooper.

Prop Sekope Kepu and centre Pat McCabe are also under an injury cloud.

Kepu had a scan on his ankle after rolling it in the quarter-final. The team remain hopeful he will be fit, but will know more by Thursday.

They are also confident that McCabe's injured shoulder will improve in time for selection.
Coach Robbie Deans will on Friday announce his team to play New Zealand at Eden Park.