Joe Schmidt denies shafting Matt O’Connor

Joe Schmidt has denied Ireland’s bosses had any involvement in the sacking of Leinster coach Matt O’Connor.

O’Connor left Leinster last week after a disappointing campaign where the province failed to finish inside the PRO12 top four for the first time in 11 years.

The outspoken Australian coach’s departure sparked suggestions Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt had a hand in his exit, owing to rows earlier in the season about player availability.