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WALLABIES strike weapon Digby Ioane has been backed to make a blockbusting return from injury in the Rugby World Cup quarter-final on Sunday.
Australia have cleared winger Ioane to play after a speedy recovery from the broken thumb that threatened to end his tournament following a brilliant start in the 32-6 win over Italy.
It comes just at the right time for the Wallabies who desperately need to bend, and pierce, South Africa's defensive line - which has conceded just two tries in four pool victories - in Sunday's sudden-death clash in Wellington.
Not just a try-scoring flyer, the 25-year-old is Australia's most destructive ball-runner and Super Rugby's leading tackle-buster, not to mention a bruising defender at No.10 in defence.
While the Springbok wingers, Bryan Habana (thigh) and JP Pietersen (shoulder) are racing time to be fit, Ioane is champing at the bit after returning from a quick trip back home for personal reasons.
"He's fine to go," coaching co-ordinator David Nucifora said on Monday.
"He'll be training with us (Tuesday) so I don't think there's any more boxes he has to tick."
Ioane's Test and Queensland skipper James Horwill went one step further, warning the defending champions that the Wellington-born gym junkie won't be rusty following three weeks off.
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