Sidney Crosby forced out of Canada Olympic quarter-final with injury

Canada captain Sidney Crosby has left the ice during the second period of the Olympic quarter-final against Czechia after suffering an injury.

The 38-year-old was crunched against the boards by Martin Necas and Radko Gudas five minutes into the period.

Crosby managed just one stride following the collision before heading to the bench in visible discomfort.

After receiving immediate medical attention, the two-time Olympic gold medallist limped down the tunnel with his return to the game stated as uncertain.

Physical battle in Milan

The incident marked the culmination of a bruising shift for the Pittsburgh Penguins forward.

He had already absorbed consecutive heavy hits from Ondrej Palat and Gudas moments before the play that forced him off.

Czechia held a 2-1 lead over the Canadians in Milan at the time of the departure.

A blow for Canada

Losing their talismanic leader represents a significant setback for Canada’s hopes of progressing to the medal rounds.

The veteran centre is competing in his latest Winter Games looking to add to his legendary international resume.