RUBY WALSH has bad accident!

RUBY WALSH is set for a spell on the sidelines after an operation on Saturday for a ruptured spleen.

The jockey was taken to hospital after a heavy fall from Pride Of Dulcote in the 3m1f handicap hurdle at Cheltenham in which he suffered a kick in the stomach.

Walsh's father, Ted, said: "Ruby is having an operation tonight for a ruptured spleen."

Walsh, who did not ride a winner on Saturday despite a series of fancied mounts, was due to have a full setof rides at Cheltenham on Sunday, including leading Arkle fancy Tatenen in the opening novice chase.

Sam Thomas, who deputised for Walsh in the final race on Saturday, is his likely replacement.

See that he was set to ride ex SA horse Rippling Ring. Would have been wort a good bet if he had stayed on IMO... Who knows now.

Speedy recovery Ruby!