Gruesome finger injury keeps James Horwill on the sideliens

Australia lock James Horwill is set to be on the sidelines after sustaining a gruesome finger injury while playing for his club Harlequins.

The injury occurred in the 70th minute of the game which Harlequins went on to lose by 25-6 at Welford Road. Despite, the finger break, the 31-year-old asked the phsyios to tape it up to allow him to play the game for his side.

However, he was denied because of the seriousness of the injury.

The former Australian captain underwent a corrective surgery following the game and confirmed the status on his injury in the social media platform Twitter.

Finger is looking normal again and all good! Thanks to Doc @mike_hayton for seeing me on a Sunday. Appreciate all the messages. #COYQ pic.twitter.com/UsHvGyLjBj

— James Horwill (@JHorwill) November 20, 2016

Former England and Leicester Tigers fly-half Andy Goode credited Horwill for his commitment.

"Fair play to @JHorwill playing for @Harlequins, hard as nails asking the physio to tape this up to play on!"

And Horwill was quick to respond: "Fair to say my days as a hand model may be over!"

A decision on Horwill's return will be taken after assessment of his injury.

New Zealand full-back Ben Smith also sustained a similar injury during their recent 21-9 win over Ireland with All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has already ruled the 31-year-old out of the upcoming Test against France.