The NSW Waratahs have been dealt a fresh injury blow with Wallabies star Berrick Barnes ruled out of Friday’s Super Rugby clash with the Melbourne Rebels.

Utility back Barnes missed last Saturday’s loss to the Queensland Reds with a groin injury but was expected to play against the Rebels in Melbourne.

However he pulled up sore after a fitness test today and would miss the game but is confident of playing next week against the Highlanders in Dunedin.

Kurtley Beale and James O’Connor are expected to start for the Rebels on Friday.

In this week’s Super rugby matches, the Blues will play the Chiefs at 6.35pm Friday and the Rebels will take on the Waratahs at 8.40pm.


Story by: Dreu Vukailagi