Mike Ross could miss start of Six Nations campaign

Irish tighthead prop Mike Ross could miss the beginning of the Six Nations Championship after suffering a serious tear to his hamstring during Leinster's defeat to Toulon at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

Outhalf Johnny Sexton also injured a quadriceps muscle in a repeat injury to the one he suffered in this year's World Cup in England and Wales, although Leinster are hoping he will be available for selection to face Munster in the Pro 12 interprovincial derby on Sunday in Thomond Park.

Loosehead prop Cian Healy will also find out news of his appeal on Wednesday. Leinster made their appeal against a two-week suspension on the grounds that Healy was charged with an offence that he was not cited for, which allowed him to play against Toulon on Saturday evening.

Leinster are hoping that the appeal can be set up and conducted via skype which would save the frontrow a trip to Paris.

There was good news for flanker Seán O’Brien, who appears to be recovering from his middle ear issue and it is hoped he will pass a fitness test this week.