Bowe loses out in battle to face Italy

IRELAND wing Tommy Bowe has been ruled out of Ireland’s opening game against Italy in the RBS 6 Nations Championship on February 5.

Bowe has been carrying a knee injury which was reviewed by both the Ospreys and Ireland medical teams and respective specialist consultants. It was concluded that Bowe would not be fit to play against Italy and the Ireland medical team will continue to liaise with the Ospreys to determine when he will be fit to return to play.

Jamie Heaslip also had his ankle injury reviewed by a specialist and confirmed the he will not be available for the Italy game.