Man down.

Hooker Sean Cronin has been forced to withdraw from Ireland’s squad for their series decider with Australia at Allianz Stadium in Sydney this morning.

The Leinster front-row was named in the starting XV on Thursday, but was forced to sit out yesterday’s Captain’s Run and was subsequently ruled out with a Grade 1 strain.

Niall Scannell has been promoted from the bench to starting hooker, with Ulster’s Rob Herring drafted in as a replacement.

It’s a cruel blow for Cronin who finishes the tour as the only hooker without a start as a result.

[Independent.ie]