Australian Rugby Union rules Israel Folau out of Western Force clash

NSW Waratahs fullback Israel Folau has been ruled out of tonight's match against the Western Force in Perth by Australian Rugby Union, following further medical advice regarding his throat injury.

The decision was made by the Australian Rugby Union’s Chief Medical Officer Dr Warren McDonald, and was based on specialist medical advice.

“Advice from our medical specialists is that Israel’s throat injury hasn’t healed to the point where it’s in his best interests to return to play tomorrow night,” Dr McDonald said.

“This is a player welfare issue, which has been the focus of all medical staff involved in this difficult decision, and we’ll continue to work on the plan for his return as soon as possible.”

The ARU’s Chief Medical Officer takes all medical advice into consideration – including evidence from team doctors and external specialists – before making a decision about a player’s fitness to return to play.