Losing skipper a big blow for Lions says Jamie Joseph

Lions skipper Warren Whiteley. Photo / Getty

Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph is describing Lions captain Warren Whiteley's unavailability for their Super Rugby semifinal as a big loss.

Ruan Ackermann will take Whiteley's place at the back of the scrum on Sunday morning in Johannesburg, after he was ruled out with a calf injury.

Joseph says it's a major blow, but there are always injuries and what happens is the player that comes in steps up well.

Jaco Kriel will captain the Lions in Whiteley's absence.