Australia forward Willie Mason has been ruled out of the World Cup on home soil with a serious knee injury.

The 27-year-old prop damaged knee ligaments during Sydney Roosters' 10-0 win over St George Illawarra on Friday.

He now faces knee surgery which could force him to miss the start of the next season in Australia's National League.

Mason has a controversial reputation - he was given a one-game ban in 2006 for knocking out Stuart Fielden during a Tri-Nations defeat by Great Britain.

The absence of New Zealand-born Mason, who represented Tonga in the 2000 World Cup, will be a big blow to Kangeroos coach Ricky Stuart as the powerful forward is one of his team's big-hitters.

The tournament begins on 25 October.

see also

Mason opts to stay in Australia
15 Nov 07 |  Rugby League

Mason gets one-game ban for punch
06 Nov 06 |  Rugby League

Inside the mind of Willie Mason
06 Nov 06 |  International

O'Loughlin to sit out World Cup
04 Sep 08 |  Rugby League

Rugby League World Cup squads
29 Aug 08 |  Rugby League

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