Wallabies Lolesio Suffers Suspected Spinal Injury in Perth Super Rugby Derby

Wallabies flyhalf Noah Lolesio suffered a suspected spinal injury during a Super Rugby Pacific match for the ACT Brumbies against the Western Force, leading to him being stretchered off the field in a neck brace. Initial concerns about the severity of the injury were high, with commentators and former players expressing hope for a full recovery ahead of the upcoming British and Irish Lions series. Subsequent medical scans cleared Lolesio of any serious injury, and he was reported to be in good spirits, with his return to play to be determined based on ongoing assessments. The injury came just days before the Lions series, with Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt also facing challenges regarding team selection due to Lolesio's impending move to Japan and his policy against selecting overseas-based players. The incident resonated with the rugby community, especially as it followed a similar injury to fellow Wallabies player Joseph Suaalii. Despite the scare, the Brumbies won the match 33-14, but the injury cast a shadow over the victory and raised concerns for Australia's preparations for the Lions tour.