Australian sevens star Henry Hutchison has been ruled out for the rest of the 2023 world series after suffering a horror string of injuries in the last two tournaments.
Hutchison, who was captaining Australia in the absence of the injured Nick Malouf, sprained his wrist and broke several ribs at the Hamilton Sevens last month but backed up for his hometown Sydney Sevens a week later.
But the 25-year-old was in the wars again at Allianz Stadium, injuring both his right knee and left ACL in the game against Argentina.
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“Obviously with the 2023 world series being an Olympic qualifying year, I’m super disappointed that I won’t be able to contribute any further on the field,” Hutchison said.
“However, I’ll be doing everything in my power to contribute to the team in a positive way. I’m hoping that my injury gives new boys the opportunity to develop their game and add new depth to our squad.”
Hutchison was set to undergo surgery on Monday and is scheduled to finish his commerce degree in March.
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Stu Dunbar filled in as Australia’s captain after Hutchison’s injuries in Sydney.
The next tournament kicks off in Los Angeles on February 25.
“There are a lot of talented footballers on this side – I’m anticipating that someone will step up and get the job done in my absence,” Hutchison said.
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“One of the biggest challenges for me over the next 9-12 months will be keeping my mind active and staying focused. The training and the rehabilitation will be the easy part – the mental endurance required for recovery will be the focus area for me.
“I know I have a lot of support at Rugby Australia, as well as from my family and friends, and I’ll rely on all parties to keep me moving in the right direction.
“Injuries are a part of football – they come with the territory. This is the biggest setback I’ve faced in my career to date, but I have full faith in the rehabilitation team I’m working with. I know they will go above and beyond in getting me back to my pre-injury state.
“I aim to come back to rugby a better player and a better athlete, mentally refreshed and ready to roll into a big 2024. People may view my injury as an incident that has robbed me of a playing year – I don’t see it that way. It has given me time to get my body right – I’ve been going pretty hell for leather for six years now. I’ll find the silver linings wherever they may be.”
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