Rugby: Horwill cleared to play

James Horwill. Photo / Getty Images

Wallabies skipper James Horwill has been cleared to play in Saturday's series-deciding third Test against the British and Irish Lions.

The International Rugby Board (IRB) appeal into Horwill's dismissed rucking charge from the first Test was dismissed leaving the lock free to play on Saturday.

Canadian arbitrator Graeme Mew delayed his decision last night after taking more than 10 hours to consider his decision.

Toronto-based Mew adjourned the hearing, held via video link, late on Monday night after close to three hours of evidence and legal argument.

The Wallabies second-rower had been cleared of the charge nine days ago but was made to face the music again after the IRB appealed his not guilty verdict.

Horwill was originally exonerated by New Zealand judicial officer Nigel Hampton QC last Sunday night after being cited for stamping on rival lock Alun Wyn Jones in the 23-21 first Test loss.

The Australian Rugby Union has been incensed at the appeal - the first the IRB has launched against a cleared player - and fought for their captain's availability with a crack legal team.

The Lions have lost their captain for the ANZ Stadium decider after flanker Sam Warburton was ruled out with a hamstring injury on Monday afternoon.