British and Irish Lions

Witcombe looks likely to be sidelined for at least six months and will not only miss Auckland's NPC play-off campaign, but also the November tour and the start of the Blues' 2006 Super 14 season.

The 26-year-old sustained the injury in Auckland's NPC and Ranfurly Shield defeat to Canterbury.

Scans in Christchurch after the game cleared the forward of a broken neck, but an MRI scan in Auckland showed a disc prolapse.

In a statement, five-times capped Witcombe said: "Your health is the most valuable asset you can have.

"Injuries are part of the game and you just have to accept them. The support of the medical staff and the team has been great. I will be following their advice closely and will only resume training when I am 100% ready."

Auckland coach Pat Lam said: "Since returning from the All Blacks, Derren's contribution to the team, both on and off the field has been first-class.

"The team and everyone involved in Auckland Rugby will be doing all they can to help him in his recovery."

New Zealand boss Graham Henry added: "We are glad the injury is not as severe as it could have been and we look forward to seeing him back playing whenever this may be."

Lions skipper Sam Warburton says the lessons he and his Welsh colleagues learnt in Australia last summer will stand them in good stead for their return visit with Britain and Ireland's elite next month.

Tom Youngs has enjoyed a remarkable rise to the top of the British & Irish game but he won't be resting on his laurels ahead of his first Lions adventure.

Check out the video from the day the HSBC Cubs met The British & Irish Lions at the Vale of Glamorgan in a day they will remember for the rest of their lives.