Lynch had been on stand-by for Great Britain's Tri-Nations squad

Lynch, Bradford's player of the year, had an operation to insert a plate in his ankle on Tuesday.

"After missing out on the semi-final and the final last year, it's a cruel blow to him and the team," said Bulls coach Steve McNamara.

"But he's in good hands. The early estimates are three months."

The injury also ended Lynch's hopes of playing for Great Britain in this year's Tri-Nations.

Lynch, one of 10 players put on stand-by for the Lions, was carried off on a stretcher after two minutes of the Bulls' 40-24 win over Warrington

Lynch took the ball into contact in the second minute, and immediately signalled for medical attention after appearing to get his studs caught in the turf.

The 25-year-old was voted Bradford's player of the season.

We will miss him because he has been great for us all year Bradford scrum-half Paul Deacon on Andy Lynch

Bradford scrum-half Paul Deacon admitted Lynch's injury would be a blow to the team's chances, but said the Bulls would have enough strength in depth to cope.

"Lynchy's injury takes a bit of gloss off the win," he said.

"He has been brilliant for us this year and all the lads feel really sorry for him. It's really bad luck.

"We have got some great players sitting on the sidelines that are maybe up for selection next week. We will miss him because he has been great for us all year but I think we've got a few bases covered."

Bradford play Hull on 6 October, with the winner going through to face St Helens in the Grand Final.