Lions trio boost whitewash bid – but Ringrose out

THE British and Irish Lions’ quest to whitewash Australia has been reinforced by the return from injury of Joe McCarthy, Sione Tuipulotu and Mack Hansen, but Garry Ringrose will play no part in Saturday's final Test.

- By DUNCAN BECH

McCarthy, Tuipulotu and Hansen are in contention for the Sydney showdown after missing Saturday's 29-26 victory over the Wallabies that clinched the series with a game to spare.

All three have completed their rehab for their respective foot, hamstring and foot injuries and took part in yesterday's low-key training session.

However, Ringrose has been left “devastated” as the 12-day minimum return-to-play protocol for concussion means he will miss the entirety of a series which he entered as first-choice outside centre.

The Ireland star self-reported his concussion symptoms shortly before the team for the second Test was named last Thursday, resulting in his withdrawal from the starting XV.