Wallaby talisman David Pocock out of Lions Tour

Wallaby openside flanker David Pocock has been ruled out of the British & Irish Lions tour after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament in the Brumbies games against the Waratahs on Saturday.

Pocock was carried off in the 13th minute of his sides Super 15 match win against the Waratahs following a collision with his own team mate Adam Ashley-Cooper.

The Brumbies confirmed on Sunday morning that the injury was serious and that it would rule him out for the rest of the season including the upcoming Lions tour.

Pocock said “To hurt my knee so early in the season is obviously disappointing, particularly considering how well the team has been playing,”

“The medical staff have given me plenty of time to make a full recovery so my focus has to turn to making that a reality. We had 17 different surgeries during the off-season so I’ve got faith in the club to get me back to full strength.”

The injury is a real blow for Wallabies coach Robbie Deans as Pocock is one of, if not the most important player in the Wallaby side and his absence will be keenly felt.

Along with New Zealand openside Richie McCaw, Pocock is considered the best in the world at his position and will be hugely missed by the Wallabies.