Wales' George North is out of contention for the British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa after confirming he has suffered a serious knee injury.
The winger, with 102 caps for his country, was expected to be part of coach Warren Gatland's squad for the tour. It is a second setback in 24 hours for Gatland, who will name his squad on 6 May, after Wasps and England lock Joe Launchbury saw his Lions selection hopes ended, also by a ruptured knee ligament.
North was hurt during Ospreys' victory over Cardiff Blues last weekend, and he tweeted: "Sport can be cruel.
"We all know the risks when we take the field. Unfortunately, I ruptured my ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) on Saturday and will need surgery next week. Heartbroken is an understatement."
The normal recovery period for such an injury is six-nine months
Sport can be cruel. We all know the risks when we take the field. Unfortunately I ruptured my ACL on Saturday and will need surgery next week. Heartbroken is an understatement. 💔 pic.twitter.com/icNDEmYmHE
— George North (@George_North) April 28, 2021
