Irish joker Tommy Bowe

Ireland wing Tommy Bowe has been ruled out of Ireland’s opening game against Italy in the RBS 6 Nations Championship on February 5th. Bowe has been carrying a knee injury which was reviewed by both the Ospreys and Ireland medical teams and respective specialist consultants. It was concluded that Bowe would not be fit to play for the Italy game and the Ireland medical team will continue to liaise with the Ospreys to determine when he will be fit to return to play.

Jamie heaslip also had his ankle injury reviewed by a specialist and confirmed the he will not be available for selection for the Italy game. Heaslip will continue his rehabilitation and has not been ruled out of contention for the France game at this point.