He is replaced in the second row by Donncha O'Callaghan, whose position on the replacements bench will now be filled by Gary Longwell.

O'Connell picked up the injury in the course of Ireland's win over England at Twickenham and although he had recovered sufficently to be named in the starting XV, the injuury flared up again today forcing his withdrawal from the side. The Ireland management are confident however that he will be available for the Triple Crown decider against Scotland in a week's time.