Australia playmaker Berrick Barnes has been ruled out for six weeks with a dislocated thumb, but is expected to be fit to face the British and Irish Lions this summer.

The 26-year-old suffered the injury during New South Wales Waratahs' defeat to the Cheetahs on Friday, although it was initially suggested that he would return within two weeks.

Despite the prognosis, it is widely understood that Barnes will be fit to face the Lions as he looks to add to his 50 caps for his country.

Barnes, who can play fly-half or inside centre, started his career in Rugby League.

Written by
Matt Law