Ireland Plan For Australia Without Sexton And Henshaw
Ireland team manager Michael Kearney has confirmed that Jonathan Sexton (hamstring) and Robbie Henshaw (concussion) will play no part in next Saturday’s GUINNESS Series finale against Australia at the Aviva Stadium (kick-off 5.30pm).
Both Jonathan Sexton and Robbie Henshaw suffered their injuries during a bruising opening quarter against New Zealand at the weekend. CJ Stander was also taken off with suspected concussion midway through the first half.
Henshaw had to be stretchered off following an 11th minute tackle from Sam Cane, which the New Zealand flanker has been cited for, while Sexton was withdrawn soon after with a minor hamstring injury. It is anticipated that the out-half will be sidelined for ‘one to two weeks’.
Rob Kearney (concussive symptoms) and Simon Zebo (cramp) were added to Ireland’s list of injuries after the mile-a-minute 21-9 defeat to the All Blacks. Stander and Kearney are due to go through the return-to-play protocols, and Zebo is expected to return to full training by Thursday at the latest.
Ireland team manager Michael Kearney said: “Robbie Henshaw was knocked unconscious by a shoulder contact to his jaw. He suffered a concussion and will not be involved this week.
“Johnny Sexton has suffered a minor hamstring injury and has been ruled out of the game at the weekend. Rob Kearney developed concussive symptoms after the game and following assessment. He will follow the graduated return-to-play protocols.
“CJ Stander was removed for a suspected concussion and will complete the HIA (head injury assessment) process and the return-to-play protocols.”
Ultan Dillane, Keith Earls and Peter O’Mahony are all expected to return to training this week, with flanker O’Mahony having played a big role in Ireland’s thrilling 26-23 home victory over the Wallabies two years ago.