Rugby Injury Update: Mack Hansen Sidelined for Five Weeks, Lions Selection in Jeopardy

Mack Hansen, a key player for Connacht and Ireland, is out for five weeks due to an ankle injury, potentially affecting his selection for the British and Irish Lions.

Injury Sidelines Mack Hansen for Five Weeks

Ireland wing Mack Hansen has been ruled out of Connacht's final two United Rugby Championship (URC) games due to an ankle injury. The Australia-born 27-year-old is expected to be sidelined for approximately five weeks, as confirmed in a squad update issued on Tuesday.

Lions Selection in the Balance

Hansen, who has scored 12 tries in 28 caps for Ireland since his debut in February 2022, is hopeful of being included in Andy Farrell's British and Irish Lions squad. The squad is set to be unveiled on Thursday. If selected, Hansen should recover in time for the Lions' pre-tour game against Argentina in Dublin on 20 June.

Other Lions Hopefuls

Meanwhile, Bundee Aki, another Lions hopeful, is back in action after missing Connacht's URC games in South Africa due to a heel problem. However, Ireland captain Caelan Doris' Lions hopes have taken a hit as Leinster announced he requires shoulder surgery.

Connacht's URC Campaign

Connacht will host Edinburgh in the URC on Saturday evening (19:35 BST). Interim boss Cullie Tucker's side, currently 14th in the league, have only slim hopes of reaching the end-of-season play-offs.

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For more updates on Irish Rugby, Northern Ireland Sport, and Rugby Union, stay tuned to our latest coverage.

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