Injury concerns for B&I Lions

MEDICAL UPDATE: The British and Irish Lions will not be flying in a replacement prop, despite the injury concerns over loosehead Wyn Jones.

Jones, a late withdrawal from the first Test starting against South Africa in Cape Town at the weekend, is doubtful for the second Test at the same venue.

The B&I Lions lead the three-Test series 1-0, after beating the Springboks 22-17 in Round One.

Assistant coach Steve Tandy told a virtual media briefing on Monday the Welsh prop was “doubtful” for this coming Saturday’s face-off.

Jones was named in the starting line-up for this past Saturday, before being forced to withdraw with the shoulder complaint.

Scotland prop Rory Sutherland started and Mako Vunipola came off the replacements’ bench early in the second half.

Tandy said on Monday they will not be calling for an additional front row forward and will bank of Sutherland and Vunipola to continue doing the job.

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* Meanwhile flyhalf Finn Russell resumed training with the touring team, after recovering from an Achilles injury.

Russell watched from the main stand in Cape Town last Saturday as the Lions beat world champions.

“Finn will start training with us today [Monday] and could be considered for selection,” said Tandy, referring to the second Test.

First Test flyhalf Dan Biggar suffered a concussion during the second half and was replaced by Owen Farrell, whose late penalty sealed the victory.

“Dan was okay in the change room after the match and is starting to do return-to-play protocols.

“I expect him to be available to train again by Thursday,” said the B&I Lions defence coach.

Head coach Warren Gatland is scheduled to announce the matchday 23 for the second Test on Tuesday.

The Lions have won four, drawn one and lost eight Test series in South Africa with the first taking place 130 years ago.

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