Alun Wyn Jones substituted just eight minutes into Lions' warm-up match against Japan at Murrayfield; fellow Lions forward Justin Tipuric also forced off with injury during first half of 28-10 victory
Saturday 26 June 2021 22:08, UK
British & Irish Lions captain Alun Wyn Jones has been ruled out of this summer's tour of South Africa after dislocating his shoulder in their opening warm-up game against Japan.
Lions head coach Warren Gatland confirmed Jones' injury following Saturday's 28-10 victory at Murrayfield, with the team set to depart just 24 hours later, and the Wales star will not be on the plane.
The Lions are due to play five more warm-up matches and three Tests against the world champions and, although he was cautious about ending Jones hopes of playing later on the tour, Gatland said the coaching staff will now discuss a replacement skipper and squad member.
"His shoulder dislocated," Gatland said. "We're getting it scanned but it's looking like we'll have to replace him.
"It's very disappointing. He's been around rugby long enough but he'll be gutted. We need to call someone in, get them PCR tested and hopefully get them on the flight tomorrow.
"The decision's pretty much made. I was speaking to the physios and they've spoken to Alun Wyn. He understands the very best case scenario is that he may get back for the Tests."
Jones left the field after just eight minutes after being hurt contesting a ruck, with England lock Courtney Lawes replacing him.
The 35-year-old appeared to be in severe pain as his left arm was tended to by the Lions medical staff, before he was eventually helped off the pitch.
"We're discussing a couple of names at the moment with the coaches," Gatland added. "Also potentially who will take over as tour captain. It's very, very early days for us.
"We have a leadership group that are pretty experienced and it's not something that is urgent to be done. But we are aware of who potentially steps into that role."
There was further cause for concern for the Lions later in the first half when Jones' Wales team-mate Justin Tipuric was also forced off with a suspected shoulder injury.
The specifics of Tipuric's problem were unclear but he appeared in discomfort as he left the field and was replaced by Taulupe Faletau in the 22nd minute.
Despite the disruption, the Lions scored three tries in the opening 24 minutes to open up a 21-0 lead, and held firm in the second period to close out a 28-10 victory over the 2019 World Cup quarter-finalists.
Gatland's side's first fixture in South Africa is against Johannesburg-based club side Lions on Saturday July 3, while the first Test of the series is three weeks later.
