mens
nations-championship
Ireland’s latest injury update takes a pessimistic tone over Garry Ringrose’s availability for the Nations Championship, which resumes next month.
The IRFU admitted that the experienced center ‘is unlikely to be involved in the upcoming games against Argentina, Fiji and South Africa in Dublin.’
The 31-year-old has suffered a hamstring injury and the IRFU has confirmed he will continue his rehabilitation with Leinster.
There are no plans to replace Ringrose, who has scored 15 tries in 75 games for the Ireland and has started eight of the last nine Tests, or Jimmy O’Brien and Sam Prendergast.
O’Brien suffered concussion in Leinster’s 24-18 comeback win against Munster on Saturday and will make a gradual return with a view to resuming full training later this week.
Prendergast, who missed the URC interpro clash with a wrist problem, is progressing towards fitness and will continue his rehabilitation this week in camp.
With Ringrose out, Bundee Aki and Robbie Henshaw are likely to battle it out with Stuart McCloskey for the two midfield spots.
Ulster’s new signing Jamie Benson is another option, although he is yet to win a game and usually plays at fly-half.