Warburton on track for October return

Cardiff Blues flank Sam Warburton has set his sights on an October return, having picked up a hamstring injury during the British and Irish Lions' historic series victory over Australia in June.

Warburton limped out of the Lions' second Test defeat to the Wallabies and the tourists' captain missed the deciding 41-16 victory in Sydney.

Wales begin their internationals in November while the Blues, who start their Pro12 campaign next month, will kick-off their European Cup season on October 13.

And while Warburton is the first to admit he will have to fight for his place back in the Blues side for that European clash against Exeter Chiefs, he's hoping to play a part.

"The initial diagnosis was 12-16 weeks, I have been in doing rehab and we are on course for that," said Warburton.

"There have been no hiccups as yet, 16 weeks is the target, and all is going good so far.

"If I could get back sometime in October, that would be good.

"It will be difficult with the Blues to walk straight back into the side, obviously you have to work your way in, but European Cup rugby is great to be involved in.

"If I can get back for that, that would be awesome."