Rugby:Ulster flanker Stephen Ferris has been ruled out Ireland's first two autumn internationals after suffering an ankle injury in last Friday's Pro12 victory over Edinburgh.
The 27-year-old has been ruled out of next Saturday’s clash against South Africa in Dublin and the following week’s appointment with Fiji at Thomond Park.
The IRFU said no decision has yet been made on his availability for the autumn finale against Argentina on November 25th.
Ferris’s absence is the latest major injury blow for head coach Declan Kidney as Ireland prepare for their return to action after last summer’s 3-0 Test series defeat in New Zealand.
Brian O’Driscoll, Rob Kearney and Rory Best have already been ruled out of the autumn games because of injuries, while lock Paul O’Connell has only taken a limited part in training.
