Stiles – ‘Hunt injury not serious’

Reds coach Nick Stiles has confirmed that the injury Karmichael Hunt sustained in the 29-26 loss to the Waratahs is not as serious as first feared.

Hunt scored his side’s opening try and made Lukhan Tui’s with a good pass while looking a constant threat on attack with his intelligent lines and direct running.

However, in the closing minutes, the in-form Reds fullback was seen clutching his right knee after landing awkwardly after a strong tackle.

But Stiles has assuaged fears that the 30-year-old may have sustained ligament damage and believes the versatile backline player, who can play at fullback or centre, has done enough to earn himself a place in Wallabies coach Michael Cheika’s side.

“There’s no doubt Karmichael was worried and he pulled up sore,” Reds coach Nick Stiles told Fox Sports Asia.

“The good news is the ligaments are all strong and he’s only dealing with the soreness of the knee being driven hard into the turf.

“The Reds haven’t played that committed against NSW for years and there were guys definitely putting a hand up for Wallabies recognition.

“K is one and a big, abrasive ball-carrier like Lukhan Tui really showed what he is capable of as a young lock of the future.”