Australian tight head prop Ben Darwin has been ruled out of the Rugby World Cup 2003 final on Saturday, 22 November, with a bulging disc in his neck.
Darwin was taken from the field on a motorised stretcher in the 49th minute of Australia’s 22-10 win over New Zealand in semi final one on Saturday night.
He was taken to hospital where he remains under observation.
“I heard a crack and immediately called out ‘neck, neck, neck’ and to his credit [All Black prop] Kees Meeuws stopped pushing, which was fortunate because I lost feeling in my body and he could have really crashed me into the ground,” Darwin said in a statement released by the Australian Rugby Union.
“When I was on the ground, I had no feeling from my neck down for about two minutes. It was terrifying but the medical staff did a great job of getting me into the right position and then I felt pins and needles in my arms and legs, which was a great relief.
“In the ambulance on the way to the hospital the staff were nice enough to put the game on the radio so I could hear what was going on. Great to see the boys finish the match off.
Cheering on the boys
“I’ll be in hospital for a couple of days at least while they monitor my condition, but the doctors are happy with my progress so far.
"I desperately want to be able to sit with the team on the bench and cheer the boys on in the final.”
Australian team doctor Martin Raftery had earlier told Rugby News Service: “If it doesn’t settle down of its own accord it will require surgery.
“At this stage our major concern is just making sure the acute injury is fine. After further investigation we will address the other issues, but at this stage we need to let the dust settle.”
Australian coach Eddie Jones has not named a replacement for Darwin in the 30-man squad at this time.
Al Baxter is expected to come into Australia's starting lineup for the Final, with Matt Dunning a likely inclusion on the reserves bench.
Stirling Mortlock (cramps), George Gregan (cramps), Brendan Cannon (shoulder) and Nathan Sharpe (head knock) have all been cleared of serious injury.
All Black misery compounded
Meanwhile veteran All Black half back Justin Marshall will not be available for the third place play-off on Thursday.
Marshall left the field in the 47th minute with a rib injury from a heavy tackle from Wallaby flanker George Smith.
Also missing will be prop Kees Meeuws, who left the field in the second half with a calf injury having come on as a replacement for Dave Hewett.