Kidney: Move will not affect Sexton’s international career

Ireland head coach Declan Kidney last night put a positive spin on Jonny Sexton’s departure for France this summer, saying the move away from Leinster would not affect his Test career.

Ireland’s first-choice fly-half stunned the rugby world yesterday when he turned down a new contract with the Irish Rugby Football Union, paving the way for a lucrative move to the French Top 14 and Racing Metro.

Refusing to express disappointment at his star man’s impending departure, Kidney said he respected the 27-year-old’s decision.