posted on Superrugby today.http://www.superrugby.co.za/default.asp?id=194145&des=article&scat=superrugby/internationalrugby
Doff I'd say!!
Aussie amputates finger for RWC dream
Fijian-born rugby player Jone Tawake has had a finger amputated in the hope of ensuring his fitness for next year's World Cup in France.
The 24-year-old ACT Brumbies number eight, capped by Australia at under-19 and under-21 level, had the ring finger on his right hand removed in an operation in Canberra last week, Australian media reported on Tuesday.
Previous attempts to repair a dislocation had resulted in a severe infection.
"It was a big decision," Tawake, a former Waratahs forward weighing 118kgs and standing 1.87m, told Australian Associated Press.
"I thought about my rugby future, especially with my history of injuries, and I couldn't afford to have any more time off.
"With the World Cup next year, I wanted to give myself every chance and to do that I needed a good pre-season."
Tawake has made 26 appearances in the Super 14 tournament, previously known as the Super 12, and has been on the fringes of Wallaby coach John Connolly's selection possibilities.
He broke the finger in a Super 14 match against the Auckland Blues in March and initial efforts to hold the finger in place and fix the joint left it infected.
"I spoke to the surgeon and team doctor and they all told me to go away and think about it. But they said that whatever I chose they would support me 100 per cent.
"It was very painful and it was very frustrating because it wasn't getting better. Since it's been cut off I just feel relieved. There's no doubt in my mind that I've made the right decision."
Doff I'd say!!
