One of the Wallabies’ most potent attacking weapons, has been ruled out of the three-Test series against the British & Irish Lions.
Rugby Australia has confirmed that flyhalf Noah Lolesio won’t play any part in the Lions series after undergoing neck surgery.
Lolesio was taken to hospital after being stretchered off in a neck brace during Australia’s warm-up fixture against Fiji on Sunday.
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The 25-year-old Brumbies pivot was initially discharged on Sunday evening but was then readmitted to hospital on Tuesday and operated on.
While this could spell potential disaster for Wallaby coach Joe Schmidt with only two relatively inexperienced flyhalves left in the squad, he says he’s happy that there doesn’t appear to be any permanent damage to Lolesio.
“Firstly, we were relieved that Noah was up and moving well when he returned to the team hotel after his initial hospital visit in Newcastle on Sunday.
“Further to that, it’s an added relief for everyone, especially his family, that successful surgery now has him on the road to recovery.”
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In their media release on Tuesday, Rugby Australia said: “He is expected to make a full recovery and will spend a period of time away from the game during his rehabilitation.
“Rugby Australia and the Wallabies will continue to support Noah and his family during this time.”
Photo: Jason McCawley/Getty Images
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