O’Connell’s autumn hopes fading fast

Declan Kidney’s hopes of bringing in some much-needed experience to Ireland’s ranks ahead of the must-win Test against Argentina later this month have been dealt a severe blow with the coach’s admission that Paul O’Connell is unlikely to play any part in the autumn internationals.

Ireland look set to fall behind Argentina in the IRB World Rankings released today following the 16-12 loss to South Africa in Dublin on Saturday night while the Pumas defeated Grand Slam champions Wales in Cardiff.

That will see Argentina swap places with Kidney’s men in the rankings, moving from seventh to eighth with the IRB standings issued on December 3.