Eddie O¿Sullivan¿s preparations for the international friendly against Romania this weekend have been dealt a blow with news that captain Keith Wood has pulled out of the squad.
The hooker, who was due to win his 51st cap at Thomond on Saturday afternoon, has pulled out after the death of his brother Gordon this morning.
Wood's place will be filled by Leinster's Shane Byrne, who in turn will be replaced by Ulster's Paul Shields on the substitutes bench.
Anthony Foley, passed fit for the match yesterday, takes over from Wood as team captain as Ireland continue their build up to the forthcoming World Cup qualifying campaign.