Lions suffer Elliot Daly injury blow in win over Reds

Elliot Daly's hopes of starting in the British & Irish Lions’ Test series against Australia have been cast into doubt after the versatile back suffered a wrist injury during the team’s emphatic 52–12 win over the Queensland Reds in Brisbane.

Daly, who had been promoted to the starting XV following Hugo Keenan’s late withdrawal through illness, began the match with promise, showcasing his playmaking abilities and linking well with the Lions’ backline.

However, midway through the second half, Daly was seen clutching his left arm and was soon replaced. He was later spotted on the bench icing the wrist and shaking his head, hinting at serious discomfort.

Head Coach Andy Farrell confirmed after the match that Daly would undergo scans to assess the extent of the injury.

“He’s pretty sore now… it looks like he took a knock to his forearm there. We’ll get him an X-ray. Fingers crossed for him,” said Farrell.

The Lions medical staff are expected to provide an update within the next 48 hours.

Daly had been gaining momentum as a leading candidate for the No.15 Test jersey, especially with Keenan yet to feature on tour due to illness and Blair Kinghorn only recently returning to full training.

His injury now opens up the competition for the full-back position, with Kinghorn and Keenan the most likely contenders if Daly is ruled out.

Kinghorn, who offers a strong kicking game and attacking vision, has prior experience in both full-back and fly-half roles. Keenan, on the other hand, was Ireland’s first-choice 15 during the Six Nations and is widely regarded for his consistency under the high ball and defensive solidity.

With the Lions set to face the Waratahs next before their opening Test against Australia on July 19, the injury comes at a crucial point in the tour.