Kangaroos request replacement for injured Luke Lewis

The Kangaroos, Australia's national rugby league team, have asked Rugby League World Cup officials for permission to replace injured back-rower Luke Lewis for the rest of the tournament, media reported Tuesday.

Lewis, 30, suffered a serious shoulder injury after crashing into an advertising sign during Saturday's 34-2 win over Fiji at Langtree Park in St Helens in Britain, reported Xinhua.

The injury has ended the Australian rugby league player's World Cup dream after Kangaroos' coach Tim Sheens confirmed Lewis was out of the tournament.

Under tournament rules, teams are usually not allowed to replace injured players but Australia are seeking special dispensation due to the circumstances of Lewis' injury.

A World Cup spokesman told the Australian Associated Press (AAP) a decision would be made Tuesday night.

If permission is granted, Beau Scott, Matt Gillett or Ryan Hoffman are among those who could be considered as a replacement for Lewis by coach Sheens, local media said.

The new player would need to be available to make a quick dash to the northern hemisphere, with Sheens ideally wanting to give the replacement game time against Ireland in Limerick Saturday.