Ireland flanker Tommy O’Donnell to miss World Cup
Ireland flanker Tommy O’Donnell has been ruled out of the World Cup after suffering a dislocated hip during Saturday’s warm-up victory over Wales.
The Munster back-row forward, who has won nine caps, was taken off on a stretcher in the closing stages of Irelands 35-21 triumph in Cardiff at the Millennium Stadium.
“Investigations at University Hospital Wales yesterday afternoon established that Tommy suffered a hip dislocation in the game against Wales,” a statement by the Irish RFU said.
“He will be limited to non-weight bearing activity for at least six weeks and has unfortunately been ruled out of participating in RWC15.”
The 28-year old uncomfortably fell as he tried to drive towards the Welsh tryline on Saturday and required an oxygen mask. Then he was transferred to a stretcher before being taken to the hospital.
He spent Saturday night in a hospital in the Welsh capital and subsequently underwent detailed medical checks, which revealed the extent of the injury suffered.
The news comes as more bad news for the head coach, Joe Schmidt, who has already lost Rhys Ruddock for the World Cup after the Leinster flanker broke his right arm in June.
This injury crisis could now open the door to Ulster back-row Chris Henry, who was initially thought to miss out on a World Cup place.
Versatile back Andrew Trimble will also have a precautionary examination on a foot injury he sustained during the Wales game.
Reigning RBS Six Nations champions, Ireland start their World Cup campaign against Canada in Cardiff on 19 September, before also facing France, Italy and Romania.
- Ireland’s remaining World Cup warm-up games.
- Ireland vs. Scotland, Saturday 15th August
- Ireland vs. Wales, Saturday 29th August
- England vs. Ireland, Saturday 5th September