Ireland dealt Six Nations blow with O'Toole ban

Ireland have been dealt a blow ahead of the Six Nations next month, with Tom O'Toole banned for the first two games.

The prop received a six-game ban following a red card for a dangerous clearout of Alex Nankivell while playing for Ulster against Munster in the United Rugby Championship last month.

O'Toole featured in three of Ireland's autumn internationals but will now have to sit out the start of their title defence against England on February 1 and their trip to Scotland on February 9.

The URC statement confirmed this decision: "Confirmation was received from Ireland's interim Head Coach Simon Easterby that the player has been a constant member of the Ireland senior squad since debut in 2021.

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"Barring injury or suspension, he would be included in the 2025 Guinness Six Nations squad with a very good chance of being named in the match day squad.

"In these circumstances, it is appropriate that Ireland's first two matches are included."

O'Toole made his debut for Ireland against the United States in 2021, making 16 appearances overall, and his suspension could give Simon Easterby a headache at prop, with doubts also surrounding Tadhg Furlong's fitness.