BOD-y blow for the Lions

O'Driscoll ruled out third Test in Johannesburg

Last updated: 30th June 2009

BOD-y blow for the Lions

O'Driscoll: Injury blow

I have decided to return home to my family this week after a very long season and to ensure I give myself every opportunity to recouperate.

Brian O'Driscoll
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The British and Irish Lions have suffered a set back ahead of the final Test against South Africa with news Brian O'Driscoll is flying home.

The inspirational Irishman suffered concussion in the second half of the 28-25 defeat in Pretoria - and has now been ruled out the final match of the tour.

It is the second successive tour that has ended prematurely for O'Driscoll - with Ireland captain flying home from New Zealand in 2005 after he was spear-tackled by All Blacks players Keven Mealamu and Tana Umaga in the first Test.

O'Driscoll said: "Being a part of the 2009 British and Irish Lions squad has been one of the highlights of my career.

"We were unbeaten leading into the Test matches and it is a shame that the results in the Tests did not go our way but sport comes down to fine margins at times.

"We could easily have won the first two Tests but it wasn't to be. I have decided to return home to my family this week after a very long season and to ensure I give myself every opportunity to recouperate."

Arrangements

Adam Jones, whose tour was ended when he suffered a dislocated shoulder after a collision with Bakkies Botha, is also set to depart early to work with the Ospreys medical team ahead of the new season.

"Arrangements are being made to bring Adam home," said Ospreys physiotherapist Chris Towers.

"When he arrives back, we will take a close look at him and assess his condition fully.

"We will then consult with specialists before any decision can be made regarding the management of his injury and any anticipated lay-off."

The Lions will go into the final Test in Johannesburg with Gethin Jenkins also missing, while Tommy Bowe and Jamie Roberts are all carrying knocks.

Team doctor James Robson said: "The two other players who suffered injury in the second Test, Tommy Bowe and Jamie Roberts, continue to be assessed on a daily basis but at this point they are making encouraging progress."

Riki Flutey and Gordon D'Arcy will push for inclusion in the centres, while John Hayes, Tim Payne, Andrew Sheridan and Phil Vickery will push for the propping duties.