Tuqiri remains hopeful

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Tuqiri underwent surgery to repair meniscus damage nearly two weeks ago, prompting coach Robbie Deans to extend his touring party to 34 players in the event the 66-Test veteran is unable to take his place.

The 29-year-old, who has four weeks to prove his fitness before the squad departs on October 27, said: "Hopefully I can gain some confidence over the next couple of weeks. I probably won't run this week, I'll just keep doing some rehab and some strengthening exercises and also upper-body aerobic work, but yes I'm optimistic."

While desperate not to miss out on the gruelling tour, which sees Australia meet New Zealand, Italy, England, France, Wales and the Barbarians, the dual-code international insists he will adopt a cautious approach.

"Hopefully I can get through, but in saying that I've got to be smart about it and listen to the doctor's advice and listen to my body as well," he added.

"It'll be an interesting couple of weeks for me, and I'd say probably stressful as well."