Sexton out for up to six weeks

Ireland fly-half Jonathan Sexton has been ruled out for up to six weeks with a foot injury, which is likely to rule him out of Leinster’s Amlin Challenge Cup quarter-final against Wasps at Adams Park on April 4th (8.0).

It will also curtail his chances to impress ahead of the annoucement next month of the British and Irish Lions squad to tour Australia.

Sexton damaged a tendon in his left foot at the end of training yesterday, resulting in his withdrawal from the starting XV for tomorrow’s Six Nations clash with Italy at the Stadio Olimpico.

The 27-year-old had only just recovered from the hamstring injury he sustained against England on February 10th and now faces an even longer spell on the sidelines.

“We were told yesterday that Jonny will be out for four six to weeks,” Ireland defence coach Anthony Foley said.