Gavin Coombes to miss start of Munster’s URC campaign

Ireland backrow is ruled out with a groin injury

Gavin Coombes will miss the start of the URC season. Photograph: Luca Sighinolfi/Inpho
Gavin Coombes will miss the start of the URC season. Photograph: Luca Sighinolfi/Inpho

Munster received an injury blow with confirmation that number eight Gavin Coombes “is being managed for a groin injury and will be unavailable for the opening rounds of the URC (United Rugby Championship),” the province confirmed.

Coombes made a fine impression on Ireland’s summer tour to New Zealand and it’s a real pity that his start to the season will be delayed. Another number eight Jack O’Sullivan, who was removed with a head injury during last weekend’s defeat to Gloucester, is following the return to play protocols.

Teenage try scorer against Gloucester Ruadhan Quinn, presented with symptoms of a possible head injury over the weekend and he too is following protocols. Andrew Conway (knee), RG Snyman (knee) and Jack Daly (knee) are unavailable.

John O'Sullivan

John O'Sullivan

John O'Sullivan is an Irish Times sports writer