The IRFU have confirmed that Tommy O’Donnell will miss the Rugby World Cup through injury.
The Munster flanker was carried off during Ireland’s win against Wales on Saturday, and scans have shown he has a dislocated hip.
The IRFU statement said: “Investigations at University Hospital Wales yesterday afternoon confirmed that Tommy suffered a hip dislocation in the game against Wales.
“He will be limited to non-weight bearing activity for at least 6 weeks and has unfortunately been ruled out of participating in RWC15.”
It is a heavy blow for the 28-year-old, who had impressed on the field until the injury.
Ireland manager Joe Schmidt had hoped O’Donnell would recover in time to play a part in the World Cup.
“We’ll know more about that in the next 24 to 48 hours,” Schmidt said after the game.
“The frustrating thing for Tommy is that he made 14 or 15 tackles, he got at least three, maybe four or five turnovers.
“I thought he started the game really strongly and he’s such a dynamic player for us.”
Ireland fans expressed their sympathy for the player and sadness at the news he would miss the tournament.