Ireland scrum-half Conor Murray has been named as the British & Irish Lions captain after Alun Wyn Jones dislocated his shoulder in the 28-10 warmup win against Japan at Murrayfield.
Wales veteran Jones will now miss the tour of South Africa, and Lions coach Warren Gatland has now chosen to give the armband to Munster and Ireland star Murray.
Jones' Wales teammate Justin Tipuric will also miss the Lions tour after also picking up a shoulder injury. Adam Beard and Josh Navidi have been called up to replace the injured duo, with Ireland captain James Ryan missing out again.
Murray started all three Tests against New Zealand on the last Lions tour four years ago, and this will be his third tour in total. The 32-year-old is also the first Irish Lions captain since Paul O'Connell in 2009.
“We’re all incredibly disappointed for Alun Wyn and Justin,” Gatland said.
“The timing of these injuries seem particularly cruel, but unfortunately they’re part of the game. Alun Wyn will obviously be a big loss, both on and off the field, but will be ably replaced by Conor.
“Conor is an outstanding rugby player and is held in the highest regard with both the players and coaches. As a three-time Lions tourist, he knows what will be required as captain and I am certain he will lead the squad with excellence.”
Josh Adams, Duhan van der Merwe, Robbie Henshaw and Tadhg Beirne scored the tries for the Lions in their 18-point win over Japan in Scotland.
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