Sam Warburton ruled out of Cardiff Blues' Challenge Cup game against Pau

Wales captain Sam Warburton has been ruled out of Cardiff Blues' upcoming European Challenge Cup clash against Pau at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park on Friday with a stiff neck.

The 28-year-old recently underwent a surgery to treat his cheekbone injury which he suffered during the Pro12 clash against Leinster on 1st October and has been out of action since then.

Warburton, missing the Friday's game will mean that he will head into the autumn internationals for Wales without much of match practice with only a Pro 12 fixture against Scarlets available on 28th November but it is highly unlikely he will be risked.

A statement released by Cardiff Blues confirmed that Warburton has been rested for the game as a precaution.

"Sam Warburton was not considered for selection as a precaution after experiencing some residual stiffness in his neck, but has fully recovered from surgery on a fractured cheekbone," said the statement.

Interim Wales coach Rob Howley will be desperately hoping for Warburton's return against the Wallabies as few of their senior players are set to miss the game because of the policy of the Premiership Rugby on not to release non-England players outside the window provided by the World Rugby.

Cardiff Blues are currently topping the Pool 4 of the European Challenge Cup after winning their opening game against Bristol Rugby.