The Lions suffered a setback when it was revealed that their captain, Warren Whiteley, is set to miss the rest of the Super Rugby season.

The number eight was a late withdrawal from the Springbok side ahead of their 35-12 victory over France in Johannesburg at the weekend due to a groin injury.

Initially it was said he would be sidelined for three weeks but further scans revealed a torn ligament in his pelvis. And although the Springbok skipper will not have to have an operation, he is could be sidelined for up to two months.

“Warren’s scan shows a torn ligament in his pelvis,” said Lions team doctor Rob Collins via a press statement.

“He doesn’t require surgery at this stage. We expect to rehabilitate him in six to eight weeks.”