Johnny Sexton currently undergoing HIA protocols

Leinster outhalf Johnny Sexton is currently undergoing Head Assessment Injury (HIA) protocols. Sexton failed his HIA when he was taken off after a collision during a tackle in Leinster's European Champions Cup match against Exeter in Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

Leinster management clarified Sexton's status on Tuesday after some confusion arose when Irish coach Joe Schmidt said on the RTE Sport Awards that he believed Sexton had passed, not failed the head assessment.

“Leinster is happy to clarify that he (Sexton) failed HIA 1 and is currently following return to play protocols,” said a Leinster spokesman.

Leinster said that Sexton passed some of the elements of the initial head assessment but failed others and for that reason failed the assessment and did return to play against Exeter.

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The Sunday following the match was a rest day and day one of the assessment. Sexton continued with his assessments on Monday and Tuesday. He will continue to be monitored throughout the week and if he passes all of the stages of the assessments will be available to play against Munster on St Stephen's day.

Sexton didn’t play in the corresponding fixture against Munster last season.

There was less positive news regarding Leinster flanker Sean O’Brien, who was carrying a few unspecified knocks going into the match last Saturday. O’Brien will not be considered for the game against Munster in Thomond Park this week.

Hooker Sean Cronin fractured two teeth in another head collision during the Exeter game and underwent a procedure. He will be assessed by Leinster as the week progresses.

Barry Daly will return to on field training after recovering from an ankle injury (syndemosis) and he too will be assessed as the week goes on.