Blow for Australia as flyhalf Lolesio ruled out of Lions series

SYDNEY :Australia's first-choice flyhalf Noah Lolesio has been ruled out of the British & Irish Lions series after undergoing surgery on Tuesday.

Lolesio, who has started 13 of 15 tests since Joe Schmidt took over as coach last year, was taken off the field on a stretcher during Australia's victory over Fiji on Sunday after slamming his head into the turf in a tackle.

"After being initially discharged from hospital on Sunday night, Lolesio was readmitted for surgery this afternoon following a further medical follow-up," the Wallabies said in a statement.

"He is expected to make a full recovery and will spend a period of time away from the game during his rehabilitation."

Schmidt will name his squad for the three tests against the Lions on Friday.

"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," the New Zealander said.

"Further to that, it's an added relief for everyone, especially his family, that successful surgery now has him on the road to recovery."