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By Adrian Warren AAP December 30, 2010 9:22PM
Rocky Elsom ... forced to consider surgery in a Rugby World Cup year. Source: Brett Costello / News Limited
Wallabies skipper Rocky Elsom heads into a Rugby World Cup year with hamstring issues which could sideline him for some time if he requires surgery.
Elsom was a key member of a developing Wallabies side who showed undeniable potential during their spring tour campaign, a trip which included a drought-breaking win over New Zealand and a spectacular last-game thrashing of Six-Nations champions France.
Elsom isn't due to resume Super Rugby training with the Brumbies until January 10.
He has a history of hamstring-related problems, missing the Brumbies' opening-round Super Rugby game last season and suffering another injury later in the year in a club appearance.
Brumbies coach Andy Friend confirmed Elsom returned from Europe with hamstring issues, but was hopeful a period of rest or some injections would be the answer rather than surgery.
"I know he's reluctant to have surgery, as are we, because that would put him out for some time," Friend said.
He said he had a bit of dialogue with Elsom on his fitness, but hadn't yet canvassed the option of surgery.
"It's that far removed as an option at the moment," Friend said.
"Our doctor Angus Bathgate has been having discussions with him.
"It's really a time thing, just to see how this little rest period (works) for him, what that does to his hamstring and whether that will be enough for him."
http://www.foxsports.com.au/rugby/wa...-1225979019027