Warren Gatland has been dealt a massive blow as Munster and Ireland lock Paul O’Connell won’t play any further part on the Lions tour.
Sadly it seems the rumours yesterday were true. Overnight the Lions management confirmed that Paul O’Connell’s Lions tour is over.
Paul O’Connell ruled out of Test series with undisplaced fracture of lower rgt arm
— British&Irish Lions (@lionsofficial) June 23, 2013
After battling back from a series of injuries in recent years, and appearing to be both fresh and in top form in Australia, this news must also be a massive personal disappointment for the 33-year-old.
Geoff Parling, who had been named to face the Melbourne Rebels tomorrow morning, has been pulled from that squad, fuelling speculation he will replace the Irish man for the second Test.
It has yet to be confirmed whether O’Connell will stay with the squad or travel home but his on-field presence, and his Lions career, is over.
Lions coverage on JOE brought to you in association with Kellogg’s, official cereal & snack provider to the IRFU.
