The IRFU Have Confirmed Paul O’Connell’s Ireland Career Is Over
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We knew this news was coming but that doesn’t make it any easier to swallow.
The IRFU have this morning confirmed that Ireland captain Paul O’Connell’s international career is over as a result of the awful hamstring injury he suffered in Sunday’s World Cup victory over France. The lock will indeed require surgery.
A leader, a warrior, a gentleman – @Paul_OConnell has played his last for Ireland. #ShoulderToShoulder #RWC2015 pic.twitter.com/xNmt6YqIpX
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) October 13, 2015
The Munster legend was due to retire after the tournament, but his loss is a huge blow to Ireland’s chances of progressing beyond Sunday’s quarter-final against Argentina. Jamie Heaslip will take over as captain, while O’Connell’s place in the squad will be filled by Leinster second row Mike McCarthy.
Squad Update: @mikemccarthy6 called up to #RWC2015 squad in place of @Paul_OConnell #ShoulderToShoulder pic.twitter.com/QI46KrJ9yl
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) October 13, 2015