Another blow for Lions as Shanklin ruled out

WALES centre Tom Shanklin has been ruled out for 16 weeks by his club – ending his hopes of touring South Africa with the British and Irish Lions.

The 29-year-old dislocated his right shoulder in Cardiff Blues’ Magners League victory over Newport Gwent Dragons on Wednesday night and was immediately taken to hospital for an X-ray. A further scan yesterday revealed the need for surgery on the joint, and with the Lions heading for Africa in just 17 days, Shanklin’s hopes of facing the Springboks are over.

The powerful midfielder walked gingerly off the Arms Park pitch with his right arm wrapped in his shirt late on in Cardiff’s 26-12 victory. Shanklin, who had earlier scored a try, appeared to pop the joint as he crashed to the floor in contact.