James Haskell called up for Lions tour after back-rower ruled out

• Billy Vunipola has withdrawn from the Lions tour to New Zealand

• The 24-year-old’s shoulder injury requires surgery

• Vunipola will be replaced by England teammate James Haskell

Wasps’ back row James Haskell has been called up to represent the British and Irish Lions on their tour to New Zealand this summer.

Haskell will replace Saracens’ back row, and former Wasp, Billy Vunipola, who has unfortunately been forced to withdraw due to an ongoing shoulder injury.

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“Billy has been carrying an injury and feels he wouldn’t be able to contribute fully to the Tour and needs further medical treatment,” Gatland added.

“We have called up James to the squad and look forward to welcoming him into camp before we depart.”

The Lions play their first match of the New Zealand tour on 3 June.