Joe Schmidt stung by Sexton’s Paris pain but door still open for Zebo

Johnny Sexton has never had the same “resilience” since his stint in France and that’s why Ireland choose not to select overseas-based players, according to Ireland coach Joe Schmidt.

Ireland boss Schmidt insisted the IRFU has “no policy” when it comes to omitting overseas-based stars from Test action.

Schmidt admitted Ireland will aim to ignore players plying their club trade abroad where possible, after Simon Zebo signed a deal to join Racing 92 for next season.