Noah Lolesio out of Lions series after undergoing operation

Australia fly-half Noah Lolesio has undergone an operation on the neck injury he sustained against Fiji at the weekend, likely ruling him out of the series with the British and Irish Lions.

The 25-year-old, who was frontrunner to start in the No.10 jersey for the Wallabies against the Lions, was stretchered from the McDonald Jones Stadium field after an hour of the 21-18 win over Fiji on Sunday.

Though Australia have not confirmed that he will miss the series with Andy Farrell’s side, he is now expected to “spend a period of time away from the game” after surgery on Tuesday.

The Japan-bound fly-half, whose former side Brumbies take on the Lions on Wednesday, is expected to make a full recover.

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A Rugby Australia statement reads: “Rugby Australia and the Wallabies can confirm Noah Lolesio has had successful surgery today.

“Lolesio sustained an on-field injury in the second half of the Test against Fiji in Newcastle on Sunday. After being initially discharged from hospital on Sunday night, Lolesio was readmitted for surgery this afternoon following a further medical follow-up.

“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.”

Wallabies head coach Joe Schmidt said: “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.”

With the series against the Lions getting underway in Brisbane on July 19, Schmidt is set to name his Wallabies squad later this week. He will not, however, have a chance to trial a new fly-half before the series commences.