Joe Smith with some of Isle of Man gymnastics team-mates

Isle of Man gymnast Joe Smith has been forced to pull out of the Commonwealth Games after tearing an Achilles tendon.

The 22-year-old was injured while taking part in a routine training session in Delhi.

"I was just doing a regular move, a standard move - nothing different. I was just starting my floor routine," said Smith.

"I'd done my first tumble, but when I went up from my next take-off I heard something snap."

Smith added: "I realised that I had lost rotation and managed to land on my side.

"As I lay there, my first thought was to get up and finish the routine, but then the pain hit me and I just grabbed my leg."

Isle of Man team doctor Frank Vaughan said: "The local medical care has been excellent. Very fast and very efficient.

"We'll now be doing our best to ensure that Joe gets the best treatment and care - both here in Delhi and on the island when he gets home."

Smith, who is part of a five-strong Isle of Man squad competing in Delhi, is hoping to stay in India to support his team-mates.

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