Flank Vincent Tshituka will return to South Africa after sustaining an ankle sprain in the Lions’ match against the Waratahs on Friday.

Tshituka started at blindside flank for the Lions in the first game of their four-match tour, but was forced off the field early due to an ankle knock.

The Lions have since confirmed the 21-year-old sustained a grade-three ankle sprain (sydesmosis injury) and will fly home for further treatment. It is not clear how long Tshituka will be out for.

News on a possible replacement will be communicated in due course.

The Lions take on the Rebels next week, followed by matches against the Blues and Highlanders before returning to South Africa.

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