OMNISPORT

Cal Crutchlow will miss the Australian MotoGP and undergo surgery after suffering a broken ankle in free practice on Friday.

LCR Honda rider Crutchlow came off his bike at Turn 1 in FP2 and was in clear discomfort after a nasty landing. A subsequent statement on the official MotoGP website confirmed he had suffered a serious injury.

It read: "After heading to the circuit medical centre, Crutchlow was diagnosed with a bimalleolar fracture and anterior tibia part right ankle fracture, an injury that will require the Honda rider to undergo surgery."

Crutchlow, who sits fifth in the championship standings, appears likely to also miss next week's race in Malaysia. The final grand prix of the season takes place in three weeks' time in Valencia.