Kangaroos left

ANY Kangaroos attempt to parachute in a replacement for the injured Jake Trbojevic is likely to be knocked back by World Cup officials as Mal Meninga grapples with a forwards crisis for Australia’s World Cup defence.

The Manly star’s World Cup was over before it really got started after scans yesterday confirmed the 23-year-old had torn a pectoral muscle, which could keep him out for a minimum of three months.

Fairfax Media understands there is little provision for the Kangaroos to ask for a replacement in their 24-man squad given Meninga had Felise Kaufusi and Reagan CampbellGillard not part of the 17 which beat England 18-4 on Friday night. It’s understood team officials sounded out World Cup organisers about the provisions for a replacement, but will need to prove there is no-one else capable of playing Trbojevic’s position to be granted dispensation.

It means rookie internationals Kaufusi and Campbell-Gillard will be asked to be shoulder a bigger load than expected for the rest of the tournament.

It shouldn’t pose an immediate issue, but if the Kangaroos were to suffer another injury to a backrow wrecking ball it will sorely stretch Australia’s resolve.

Trbojevic will consult Manly medical staff to determine whether he needs to undergo surgery.

‘‘It’s obviously bitterly disappointing, but I guess that’s footy,’’ he said. ‘‘It felt pretty weird the way it happened. I didn’t think too much [about it], but it definitely didn’t feel right. I had no strength then.

‘‘[But] I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to play the first game of the World Cup against England. I’ve never played against England before. It’s a great experience in itself and to play