SYDNEY (AP) — Australia flyhalf Noah Lolesio has had surgery on an unspecified injury sustained in the 21-18 comeback win over Fiji last weekend and has been sidelined ahead of the three-test series against the British and Irish Lions.
Rugby Australia issued a statement on Tuesday confirming Lolesio “has had successful surgery today.” The playmaker was discharged from the hospital on Sunday, a day after the game, then readmitted after a medical follow-up.
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The back of his head hit the ground with force during the second half against Fiji in Newcastle, north of Sydney.
Rugby Australia didn’t release details of the injury or the timeframe for Lolesio’s recovery. Australian media reported Lolesio underwent spinal surgery.
“He is expected to make a full recovery and will spend a period of time away from the game during his rehabilitation,” Rugby Australia said.
Wallabies coach Joe Schimdt said in a statement, “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.”
The first test between Australia and the Lions is on July 19 in Brisbane.
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AP rugby: https://apnews.com/hub/rugby
