This is the moment Wales rugby ace Scott Baldwin is bitten by a lion after patting it “like a kitten” at a game park in South Africa.
Footage posted on social media by former rugby player Andy Goode shows Baldwin reaching between the bars of a cage and petting the lion's head.
The beast clamps its jaw around his hand, causing him to scream and hastily back away.
The 29-year-old, who was branded "pretty stupid" by his coach, was taken to hospital where he received stitches and treatment against infection.
The incident happened during a visit to Bloemfontein zoo and meant Baldwin missed Ospreys' Guinness PRO14 game against South African franchise Cheetahs, which the Welsh side lost 44-25.
Coach Steve Tandy did not have any sympathy for his player, suggesting in a press conference that he had ignored instruction.
Mr Tandy said: “There was an incident with a lion, but in fairness it was nothing to do with the lion.
“He did bite Scott but when you put your hand in a fence where there is a lion, then you will get bitten.
“It was pretty stupid on Scott’s behalf and he is pretty lucky. It was a good environment and we were told how far back to stand.
“I don’t know what sort of wildlife show Scott has been watching where you can pat a lion on the head as if it’s a kitten.”
Baldwin has since taken to Twitter to apologise for missing the game.
He said: “Should of known he wouldn’t be impressed with me stroking his lioness before introducing myself to him first. My bad.
“And for those asking my hand in on the mend thankfully & should be up & running round soon enough thanks for your support and concern.”
Ospreys said in a statement: "Ospreys Rugby can confirm that Scott Baldwin sustained a hand injury on Wednesday.
“The team doctor treated a laceration and, subsequently, he was admitted to a local hospital in Bloemfontein on Thursday evening for further treatment to prevent infection.
“He will be released on Saturday morning to travel home with the rest of the squad as planned."
