Ireland and Ulster hooker Rory Best has replaced the banned Dylan Hartley in the British & Irish Lions squad for the upcoming tour of Australia.
Hartley was given an 11-week ban on Sunday after allegedly swearing at referee Wayne Barnes during Saturday's Aviva Premiership final between Northampton Saints and Leicester Tigers.
Best, who has earned 67 caps for his country, will now join his Lions teammates on Monday.
"Despite the circumstances we should congratulate Rory, who will join the squad tomorrow and fly with us to Hong Kong," said Lions Tour manager Andy Irvine.
Hartley could yet return to the squad if he is successful with any potential appeal.
