The British and Irish Lions captain Sam Warburton will miss the series-deciding third test against Australia in Sydney after suffering a "significant" hamstring tear.
British and Irish Lions' Sam Warburton leaves the field with an injury during the second test. Credit: David Davies/PA Wire
The Welsh loose forward sustained the injury late in Saturday's 16-15 second test defeat in Melbourne, which has left the series at 1-1 before Saturday's Sydney showdown.
The Lions said on their official Twitter feed: "The British & Irish Lions confirmed today that captain Sam Warburton would play no further part in the tour after suffering an injury during the second test.
"He will remain with the tour party for the third test in Sydney on Saturday."
The British and Irish Lions face a series decider in Sydney next Saturday after falling short 16-15 in a tight second Test against Australia at the Etihad Stadium in Melbourne.
A dejected Lions team Credit: David Davies/PA WireGeorge North is challenged by Australia's Israel Folau Credit: David Davies/PA WireGeorge North carries Israel Folau Credit: David Davies/PA Wire
British and Irish Lions supporters are gearing up for what could be an 'historic' series win against Australia since the 1997 success in South Africa. Fans said the "Lions will win of course".
Lions fans wearing official shirts in Melborne ahead of the second Test against Australia Credit: Twitter/British and Irish LionsA man wears an official British and Irish Lions jersey as he cycles through the streets Credit: Twitter/British and Irish Lions
"I am nervous because of the massive game ahead.. But I am also excited because of what we are on the cusp of achieving".
Lions captain Sam Warbuton Credit: David Davies/PA Wire
"It was such a relief to get the victory last week.
"I have been involved in quite a few close finishes for Wales against Australia, and they have not gone our way but before last Saturday’s game I remember telling myself that, if it did get close again, then it had to go our way sooner and later. And so it did.
