Latham Out Of Wallaby Squad.

On the eve of their departure, full-back Chris Latham has been ruled out of the Wallabies` four Test rugby tour to Argentina and Europe after injurying an ankle. Latham twisted an ankle while at home in Brisbane last week and failed to pass a medical test ahead of the team`s departure for Buenos Aires on Friday.
“It`s very disappointing to miss this tour but in reality I would only be an outside chance to play England which is the third match out of four.” Latham was quoted saying on the official Australian website.
He was expected to face pressure for his Test fullback spot from Mat Rogers and Matt Burke while on tour and realised that his omission could give others a head start going into the 2003 season, which culminates in the World Cup.

“I know I`ll be giving someone else a chance but plenty of other players are in that position and now I`ve got the opportunity to have a good off-season so I can start the World Cup year fully fit,” Latham said.

He will be replaced in the tour squad by New South Wales winger Scott Staniforth.