Wales and Lions scrum-half Tomos Williams has been ruled out of the Australia tour with a serious hamstring injury sustained while scoring in the win over Western Force. His absence is a major blow, having been one of only two Welsh players selected. Ben White has been called up as cover. Head coach Andy Farrell called the news “shocking” and praised Williams’ significant impact on and off the field.
00:00Wales and British Irish Lions scrum half Thomas Williams has been ruled out of the remainder of the Lions' Australia tour after suffering a significant hamstring injury.
00:12The damage occurred while Williams was scoring his second try in the Lions' commanding 54-7 win over Western Force.
00:20This blow will be felt keenly across Welsh rugby as Williams had been one of only two Welsh players selected and was performing exceptionally well, making a strong case for a test spot against the Wallabies.
00:34Williams' injury left head coach Andy Farrell visibly disappointed. Farrell described the news as shocking and stressed the huge impact Williams had on the squad, both on and off the pitch.
00:45Unfortunately, shocking news for us all. Thomas has got a slightly worse injury than we first thought, so it's going to be medium to long term-ish, so unfortunately he's got some sad news this morning and he'll be leaving camp later on this evening.
01:13Ben White is on his way trying to get Ben, along with Blair King, who will be with us this evening also.
01:24Williams' creativity, pace and attacking threat had energised the Lions and his absence is a major loss.
01:30To fill the gap, Scotland's Ben White has been called up from their squad in New Zealand and will join the Lions' camp ahead of their next match against the Queensland Reds.
01:40The Welsh rugby community has rallied around Williams, sending messages of support and hoping for a swift recovery.
01:49His injury also raises questions about his availability for Wales' upcoming international fixtures, a significant concern given his importance to the national team.
01:59Despite the setback, Farrell remains confident the Lions' squad can adapt and continue their push in Australia, focusing on mental resilience and team unity as they prepare for the crucial test series ahead.
