Duffy Called Up As Earls Is Ruled Out Of Second Test

In addition to the usual bumps from Saturday’s first Test against New Zealand, there are three main injury updates of note from the Ireland matchday squad.

Cian Healy suffered a shoulder strain during the match, but has improved over the last 24 hours and will continue to be monitored during training this week.

Healy’s front row colleague Declan Fitzpatrick sustained a gluteal muscle strain and will also be monitored during the week. Neither player has been ruled out of selection for the second Test next week.

The only injury that has ruled any player out of contention for the Christchurch clash is versatile back Keith Earls.

Earls picked up a pectoral muscle injury in the later stages of the game and will not be available for selection. He will be continued to be monitored by the medical staff for his availability for the third and final Test.

Connacht full-back Gavin Duffy has been brought into the Ireland squad as cover following the injury to Earls.

The touring party underwent their recovery session at Takapuna Beach on Auckland’s North Shore this morning.