Shoulder problem hampering Hodges' Cup bid

Nick Markham | Rugbyleaguelive.com | 10/10/08 | 0

A shoulder injury has placed Brisbane centre Justin Hodges' World Cup hopes in jeopardy, despite Australian team doctor Hugh Hazard declaring the strong-running centre a definite starter.

Hodges will have scans today after being restricted by the injury during the finals series. Results are expected to be known later today.

"We had Hodges here for a training session last week," Hazard said at the team medical yesterday.
   
"I've seen all those (Queensland-based) boys a week ago, they're fine.
   
"He's had a chronic shoulder problem but he's played with it all year so he's going to keep playing with it. He's fine."

But Australian selectors are known to be considering replacements should Hodges be ruled out, with Karmichael Hunt, Matt Cooper and Jarryd Hayne in contention to replace the Queensland Origin star.

Hunt is believed to hold a slight edge due to his utility value.

"We already have centre pretty well covered with Israel Folau, Greg Inglis, Joel Monaghan and Brent Tate in the side," Australian selector Des Morris told News Limited. 

He's had a chronic shoulder problem but he's played with it all year... Dr Hugh Hazard, Kangaroos doctor