Stuart Hogg OUT of Lions tour and won’t face New Zealand after picking up bizarre facial injury in win over Crusaders
Scotland full-back sent home after freak facial fracture in collision with Conor Murray's elbow on Saturday
STUART HOGG is OUT of the Lions tour after suffering a freak facial fracture.
The Scotland full-back clashed with team-mate Conor Murray's elbow in Saturday's win over the Crusaders.
Hogg suffered a cut under his eye as well as a nasty looking shiner.
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The Glasgow Warriors star was well in line to start the first Test against the All Blacks a week on Saturday.
Hogg said: I’m gutted to be leaving to be leaving the tour at this stage.
“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.”
Boss Warren Gatland will not be calling anyone up to replace Hogg as he has Leigh Halfpenny, Anthony Watson, Liam Williams, Jared Payne, Jack Nowell and Elliot Daly who can all play at No15.
Gatland said: “It is hugely disappointing for Stuart to have to return home early and for us to lose one of our touring party.
“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.”