Shanklin blow for Lions

Wales centre Tom Shanklin has been ruled out of action 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 revealed the need for reconstructive surgery on the joint, and with the Lions heading for Africa in just 17 days' time, Shanklin's hopes of facing the Springboks are over.

Blues chief executive Robert Norster said: "I'm sure I can speak on behalf our the entire Blues family, indeed the entirety of Wales when I offer our sympathies to Tom following his devastating shoulder injury that will prevent him travelling with the Lions to South Africa this summer.

"Tom and all our other Lions heading south have given their very best for the Blues and their country this year and such injuries hardly seem fitting or fair.

"Suffice to say Tom picked up the injury whilst giving his all for our team and we are all feeling for him at this difficult time of disappointment and frustration."

The powerful midfielder walked gingerly off the Arms Park pitch with his right arm wrapped in his shirt late on in the 26-12 victory.

Shanklin, who had earlier scored a try, appeared to pop the joint as he crashed to the floor in contact.

He had been pencilled in for a possible place in the Lions Test side, when his physical presence would have been a potentially vital asset against the muscular Springboks.

His absence could now open the door for international team-mate Gavin Henson, although his chances are hampered by a lack of recent action.