Ireland duo set to miss Wales clash

Ireland forwards Caelan Doris and Quinn Roux look certain to miss the Six Nations opener against Wales after returning to their provinces for medical assessment.

Leinster number eight Doris, who was arguably his country’s standout performer during the Autumn Nations Cup, has shown symptoms of concussion, according to a statement released by the Irish Rugby Football Union.

South Africa-born lock Roux has a neck complaint and has returned to Connacht.

Ireland forwards coach Paul O’Connell admits it is a major blow to lose the “X-factor” qualities of Doris on the eve of the Six Nations.

O’Connell does not know the extent of either player’s problem but feels exercising caution was the only option.

“They are two injuries you don’t ever want to be messing around with, you have to be careful,” he said.

“I am not sure we know length of time on either of them. It’s frustrating for them and frustrating for us.

A fantastic player

“Caelan is obviously a fantastic player. I worked with him in the U20s and he was incredible.

“He has that X-factor and we need those players in world rugby.”

On Roux, he added: “I played against Quinn towards the end of my time and he was excellent.

“My last game against Connacht, he was brilliant that day and he’s a big man, great ideas in the lineout. It’s disappointing not to have him in.”

Munster back-row Gavin Coombes and Leinster lock Ryan Baird will train with Andy Farrell’s squad this week, ahead of Sunday’s meeting with Wayne Pivac’s men in Cardiff.

Captain Johnny Sexton, forwards Iain Henderson, Tadhg Furlong and Peter O’Mahony and winger James Lowe were among the injury doubts included in head coach Farrell’s initial 36-man selection.

According to a statement from the Irish Rugby Football Union, all players still in the camp are expected to train this week.