British and Irish Lions flanker Sean O'Brien has had his citing case for dangerous play dismissed, leaving him free to face New Zealand in next week's decisive third Test.

The 30-year-old faced being punished for swinging an arm towards opposition winger Waisake Naholo during Saturday's second Test, which the Lions won 24-21 to set up a thrilling decider in Auckland.

Irish back row O'Brien denied the offence, however, and the citing has been thrown out by a three-man panel as the incident was deemed to be unintentional.

All Black Sonny Bill Williams will play no part at Eden Park, meanwhile, having been handed a four-week ban for his shoulder charge into Anthony Watson's face.

Williams has since apologised, telling reporters: "They've come to the conclusion that it was reckless - it wasn't intentional. I'm very disappointed that I've let my brothers down."

New Zealand failed to score a try in the second-Test meeting - the first time that has happened in 39 outings.