Barnes: Will have to rebuild his confidence

Barnes was not included in the Wallabies' 40-man training squad after the Waratahs pivot suffered a recurring bout of concussion that kept him out of most of the Super Rugby competition.

However, the talent of the 25-year-old and the need for depth in the Aussie number 10 jersey means that the selectors would welcome Barnes back were he to make a full and successful recovery both physically and in terms of his confidence.

The first stage of that comeback is a club match for Sydney University this weekend, and Robbie Deans will be an interested observed - with the Wallaby selectors also set to watch footage of the match if Barnes features on Saturday.

"I've been told he is playing club rugby this weekend," explained the Australian coach. "Berrick is off the template, so to speak.

"He is not being considered and won't be considered until he convinces himself that he not only wants to play again, but is able to play again, and also play with confidence.

"We've essentially deemed his season to be over, until such time as it is otherwise. That's the nature of the injury, and that's essentially what he asked of us - If that changes, we will reconvene," Deans added.

"It would be great for Berrick to get out there and play again, enjoy it, and do it without anxiety."

Also clinging to the hope of being fit enough to make the Wallaby World Cup squad is Benn Robinson.

The respected front-rower injured his knee in training last week and it was though that he would require surgery, thus ruling him out of the tournament in New Zealand in less than two months time.

But on Monday it was revealed, however, that Robinson's surgery has been put on hold to see if rehabilitation might lead to him making a speedier comeback in time for the global showpiece in September.