Another Ireland star ruled out of World Cup

INJURY UPDATE: Ireland lost another key player to injury ahead of this year’s World Cup in Japan.

Sean O’Brien has been ruled out of the tournament after Leinster confirmed on Sunday the flank is set to undergo hip surgery.

O’Brien faces up to six months on the sidelines and won’t be back in time for the tournament in Japan, which starts on September 20.

Injury denied O’Brien a place in Leinster’s squad for Saturday’s 18-15 Pro14 final victory over Glasgow Warriors at Celtic Park but he still lifted the trophy with his teammates following the win.

Losing the services of O’Brien is a big blow for the Irish as they are already without openside side flank Dan Leavy, who was ruled out of the World Cup because of a knee injury.

A statement issued on Leinster’s website read: “Unfortunately (head coach Leo) Cullen has confirmed that back row Sean O’Brien will undergo surgery in the next few weeks for a hip injury.

“As a result will be ruled out of action for up to six months. He has been ruled out of the Rugby World Cup in Japan.”

O’Brien, who has 56 Ireland caps, will swap Leinster for English club London Irish later this year.

The 32-year-old has struggled with a string of injuries across an otherwise impressive trophy-laden career for his province, Ireland as well as the British and Irish Lions.

London Irish director of rugby, Declan Kidney said: “We are disappointed for Sean that he is not in a position to compete for a place in the Ireland Rugby World Cup squad. We wish him a successful operation and a speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming him to London Irish for the next stage of his career.”

AFP

London Irish is aware of Sean O’Brien’s injury and the fact that his impending surgery will rule him out of contention to take part in this year’s Rugby World Cup.

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— London Irish (@LiRFC) May 26, 2019