Six Nations: Concussed Lee Jones expected to miss Italy match

SCOTLAND wing Lee Jones is expected to miss Saturday’s final RBS Six Nations match against Italy after suffering severe concussion following a head injury which forced him from the field in the weekend’s 32-14 loss to Ireland in Dublin.

The 23-year-old Edinburgh back, who was winning his fourth cap, was taken off following a sickening clash of heads with opposite number Andrew Trimble.

The incident occurred during the 62nd minute when Ireland scrambled furiously inside their own 22, with Jones collapsing instantly from the collision before receiving prompt medical attention.

Scotland team doctor James Robson said on scotlandrugbyteam.org: “Lee took a blow to the head which resulted in a severe concussion. He remained in St Vincent’s University Hospital, Dublin, overnight in the care of consultant John Ryan.

“He has made good progress overnight and will stay in hospital this morning until the consultant is happy for him to be released. He is scheduled to travel back to Scotland tomorrow [Monday].”

The Scotland squad returned to Edinburgh yesterday to begin preparations for Rome, with four other players set to require further medical attention. Two did not complete the game – scrum-half Mike Blair (shoulder), who was replaced by Chris Cusiter, and centre Max Evans (dead leg).

Flanker John Barclay (ribs) and No 8 David Denton (shin bruising) will also require further treatment, while a number of other players have what Dr Robson described as “lesser soft-tissue” injuries.

Scotland head coach Andy Robinson is scheduled to name his team for the Italy match on Wednesday.