Ireland lose Sexton to injury ahead of Test against the Springboks
Ireland's prospects of beating the Springboks receded dramatically on Thursday with the news that playmaker Johnny Sexton is out injured.The Irish are yet to win a Test against the Springboks in South Africa - and much of Ireland's assault would have centred on the assertive flyhalf.To compound matters, brothers Rob and Dave Kearney are also unfit to tour.Sexton injured his shoulder while playing for his provincial side, Leinster, in the Pro12 final against Connacht last weekend. He had to undergo an operation on Tuesday, which effectively ruled him out of the tour.Sexton's place in the party will go to Ian Madigan, who also replaced him in a quarterfinal of the last World Cup.The last time Ireland clashed with the Springboks they won 29-15 in Dublin, with Sexton contributing handsomely with 16 points. He has an average of 13 points in Tests against the Springboks, a lot better than the 9.04 he averages in all Tests.The latest withdrawals come on the back of wing/fullback Luke Fitzgerald pulling out...
There’s never been a more important time to support independent media.
From World War 1 to present-day cosmopolitan South Africa and beyond, the Sunday Times has been a pillar in covering the stories that matter to you.
For just R80 you can become a premium member (digital access) and support a publication that has played an important political and social role in South Africa for over a century of Sundays. You can cancel anytime.
Already subscribed? Sign in below.
Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@timeslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00.