And hooker Phil Greening is battling to recover from a similar problem, although he has remained with the squad.

Lawrence Dallaglio (knee) has yet to feature as he continues a lengthy rehabilitation process, while neither Iain Balshaw (chest) nor Mike Catt (calf strain) were considered for Tuesday night's clash at the Dairy Farmers' Stadium in Townsville.

"It is the saddest thing of a tour when players get injured and go home, and the situation with Simon yesterday was a downer for everyone," Henry said.

"He has shown tremendous character though, and left with a smile on his face as he wished everyone well. That speaks volumes for him as a person.

"I have been told that an average of six players go home early from every Lions tour. Clearly, we are trying to reduce that number, but we haven't started very well."

Full-back Balshaw, who was hurt after scoring two tries against Western Australia two days ago, is expected to recover in time for next Saturday's first major tour examination against Super 12 outfit Queensland Reds in Brisbane.

And Catt's first start could come in that game, although Dallaglio will probably have to wait a little longer.

"We are hoping that Lawrence will play reasonably shortly, but there is no point in playing him unless he is right," Henry added.

Henry has made 14 changes from the side that crushed Western Australia 116-10, with only England centre Will Greenwood retained.

Seven players will make their Lions debuts - England trio Matt Perry, Jason Robinson and Martin Corry, Welshmen Dafydd James, Colin Charvis and Martyn Williams, plus Scotland lock Scott Murray - with prop David Young captaining the team.

The tourists posted a Lions tour-record 18 tries in Perth, but Henry expects far tougher competition from a Queensland select containing 10 players who featured during this season's Super 12 competition.