JOE SCHMIDT’S Australia have been hit with a massive setback ahead of the British and Irish Lions test series.
The news comes as first-choice flyhalf Noah Lolesio was ruled out after undergoing neck surgery.
Lolesio was stretchered off during the Wallabies’ win over Fiji on Sunday.
The Brumbies ten landed awkwardly on his head following a tackle.
A statement from Rugby Australia confirmed the devastating news: “After being initially discharged from hospital on Sunday night, Lolesio was readmitted for surgery this afternoon following a further medical follow-up.
“He is expected to make a full recovery and will spend a period of time away from the game during his rehabilitation.”
The injury comes just a few months after the player suffered a back injury for his club side.
Head coach Joe Schmidt will name his squad on Friday for the three-match series against Andy Farrell’s Lions in July and August.
The former Ireland and Leinster boss said: “Firstly, we were relieved that Noah was up and moving well when he returned to the team hotel after his initial hospital visit in Newcastle on Sunday.
“Further to that, it’s an added relief for everyone, especially his family, that successful surgery now has him on the road to recovery.”
Meanwhile, Joe Schmidt also delivered a blunt reality check for his side ahead of clashes against the British and Irish Lions.
The Wallabies needed a late try from captain Harry Wilson to edge past Fiji 21-18 in their opening fixture of the year last weekend, their only outing before the clashes against Andy Farrell’s side.
And the Schmidt was left in a sombre mood after a lucky escape against the Pacific Islanders.
Despite the game being their first outing since the turn of the year, the New Zealander admitted he expected more from his side.
He said: “We haven’t been together for six months, and to have five trainings and to be seamless would be an expectation I’d hope for rather than believe would immediately happen.
“Now we have another short run to improve on what we saw today.”
