James Haskell reveals he’s ‘gutted’ for Billy Vunipola in emotional Instagram post

James Haskell has sent a message of support to friend and teammate Billy Vunipola, who the Wasps flanker replaces in the British & Irish Lions squad.

England and Saracens powerhouse Vunipola was forced to withdraw with a shoulder injury on Sunday.

“Thank you, everyone, for the amazing messages and support,” wrote Haskell.

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“Really gutted for Big Billy Vunipola. For me he is one of the best backrow players in the world and a huge loss to any team. He is a guyIi admire every time he plays.”

Thank you everyone for the amazing messages and support. Really gutted for Big Bill @vunipola_billy . For me he is one of the best backrow players in the world and a huge loss to any team. He is a guy i admire every time he plays. Obviously its the biggest honor in my career to get a call up, to any players dream the @britishandirishlions. However I have a huge game with @waspsrugby this weekend. Something as a team we have wanted for so long. Thats my only focus for now.

A post shared by James Haskell (@jameshask) on May 22, 2017 at 9:51am PDT

“Obviously its the biggest honor in my career to get a call up, to any players dream the British & Irish Lions.

“However I have a huge game with Wasps this weekend. Something as a team we have wanted for so long. Thats my only focus for now.