Charlie Hodgson out for a month

England international Charlie Hodgson is expected to miss the first month of the season after undergoing shoulder surgery.

The Sale Sharks fly-half has started his rehabilitation, with his club saying the operation was "a complete success."

Hodgson went to see a specialist after suffering pains in his shoulder for a while. He is likely to miss the September matches against Newcastle, Saracens, Harlequins and Bath.

Australia captain Rocky Elsom promises his side will be more physical in the breakdown against New Zealand in tomorrow's Tri‑Nations clash in Christchurch.

Elsom admitted his team had not been tough enough during last week's 49-28 loss to the All Blacks.

"Bodies around the ruck slow down our attacking ball," he said. "We must address that because anything that takes the sting out of your attack won't help. You have to move those bodies as best you can."