Chile’s rugby team faces an injury crisis as key players Sigren, Torrealba, and Baguley suffer ACL tears, sidelining them for the upcoming July Internationals and World Cup Qualifiers. This adds pressure on the remaining squad as they prepare to face Brazil.
Chile is facing a notable setback as it grapples with an injury crisis just ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2027 Qualifiers. Three players from the Selknam team—Martín Sigren, Marcelo Torrealba, and Tomás Baguley—sustained serious injuries during a match against Los Tarucas. Reports indicate that all three players have torn the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in their left knees, which is a significant concern for the national team.
The nature of these injuries necessitates surgical intervention. While exact timelines for their recovery haven’t been specified by Chile Rugby, it’s clear from past incidents of similar injuries that recovery can be lengthy. This suggests that none of the injured players will be available for selection under coach Pablo Lemoine in the upcoming July Internationals.
Lemoine is expected to finalize a squad for a July test match against Romania, alongside the important Rugby World Cup 2027 Qualifiers. The Los Cóndores are set to face Brazil on July 19 in an away match, before hosting them again on July 26. The aggregate winner of these matches will advance to play against Uruguay or Paraguay to determine South America’s representative for Australia 2027.
Among those injured, Sigren stands out as he serves as Chile’s test captain. He skillfully led Los Cóndores during their first-ever Rugby World Cup in France earlier this year, accumulating 38 caps. Torrealba, another key player with 22 caps, is also sidelined. Baguley, who is newer to professional play and has yet to receive a cap, will also miss an opportunity to demonstrate his skills.
Adding to the challenges, Chile also finds itself without starting center Domingo Saavedra, who injured his right knee’s anterior cruciate ligament back in March. His absence for the rest of the season has been confirmed, with a timeframe for recovery still unknown. On a slightly positive note, fellow center Matías Garafulic is expected to return to full fitness in time for international competition.
In summary, Chile is grappling with significant injuries to key players just as it heads into the critical phase of World Cup qualifying matches. With three players facing surgeries and extended recovery times, the coaching staff will need to adapt quickly. Their performance in the upcoming matches against Brazil will be crucial for their aspirations to qualify for Australia 2027.
Original Source: www.americasrugbynews.com
