Stuart Hogg was many people’s favourite to wear the Lions 15 jersey in the First Test against New Zealand later this month.
The British & Irish Lions have confirmed the Scotland fullback will miss the remainder of the tour to New Zealand after fracturing a ‘facial bone’ in Saturday’s win over Crusaders.
Hogg sustained the damage in the first half of that 12-3 victory when he accidentally collided with Conor Murray when chasing his own kick.
It is suspected that Hogg has fractured his left cheekbone and he will soon return to Scotland to receive treatment and begin his rehab. Lions head coach Warren Gatland called the news ‘hugely disappointing’. He commented:
“Stuart has been a key member of our squad on and off the field and it is disappointing to see injury cut short his time with us in New Zealand.
“We all wish him the best with his recovery and we look forward to seeing him back in action in the future.”
Hogg admitted he was “gutted” to be leaving the tour so soon but spoke very highly of those he was leaving behind. He said:
“It is an honour to have been involved in a second British & Irish Lions tour and I have hugely enjoyed my time with the squad and I’m very excited about the potential of this group.
“I’m disappointed to be leaving in this way but wish all the squad the best in the coming weeks and will be cheering them on from home.”
There will be no replacement call-up for Hogg at this time, however that may change after the Highlanders match in Dunedin.
