More bad news for Lions

The Lions confirmed that Whiteley's knee injury will keep him sidelined for a while longer.

Whiteley injured his knee against the Blues in Round Four.

He was set to return to the team against the Waratahs in Sydney on Friday, but tweaked his knee in training and withdrew from the team.

Whiteley was withdrawn from the touring squad, but not replaced – in the hope that scans would clear him.

However, the Lions revealed that Whiteley's return has been delayed … again.

"Warren Whiteley has not been medically cleared by the medical team and will not join the Lions on tour until he is medically cleared," a curt statement said.

The Lions did not reveal the possible length of the lay-off, although their statement suggests they are holding out hope that he might still join them on tour.

In Whiteley's absence, Franco Mostert will continue to captain the side.

The Lions start their tour when they play the Waratahs on Friday – before taking on the Reds, Highlanders and Hurricanes.