Hayes called up to Lions

Ireland tight-head John Hayes has been called up to the British & Irish Lions squad in the aftermatch of Euan Murray's injury.

Coach Ian McGeechan said: "John Hayes has been called up to replace Euan Murray who sustained an ankle injury in the match against the Southern Kings in Port Elizabeth. The medical team have now fully assessed his injury and have determined that the injury is serious enough to mean he will play no further part on the tour."

"Euan left the field because of the injury and has damaged the structures around the ankle joint. He is subject to further assessment, treatment and specialist opinion but may require surgical repair. John Hayes will be a straight swap for Euan in the squad."

"John Hayes is an experienced international front row forward who has played 94 times for his country. He was an integral part of the Irish Grand Slam win this year. He also played four provincial matches on the 2005 tour to New Zealand and won a Lions Test cap against Argentina prior to the tour."

It is anticipated that Hayes will fly to South Africa on the weekend and will meet up with the squad in Durban.

Murray, meanwhile, follows the likes of fellow injured players Stephen Ferris and Leigh Halfpenny in making an early exit.

He was hurt early in the game at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, being replaced by Wales prop Adam Jones.