O'Driscoll injury rocks team

Captain Brian O’Driscoll could be a doubt for Ireland for the World Cup after being punched in the face in a warm-up game last night.

O’Driscoll suffered a suspected fractured cheekbone after being struck by lock Mikaera Tewhata during the second half of Ireland’s 42-6 win over Bayonne in France.

The 28-year-old centre was taken to hospital after leaving the field during the second half and coach Eddie O’Sullivan admits he fears the worst.

O’Sullivan said: “I’m genuinely worried about Brian. He’s gone for an X-ray. If the doc’s worried, then I'm worried.

“Hopefully, he is okay. And if he isn’t, it would be a very big pity. We knew we would get a physical game here, we needed that game. Bar Brian’s injury, it was a worthwhile exercise. It’ll be overshadowed if Brian got injured (though).

“It was a punch thrown, so you can’t legislate for that. Anyone can throw a punch anytime. It could be serious if it is fractured, it would be a pity.”

Losing O’Driscoll for the World Cup would be a major blow for Ireland. He is rated as one of the best centres in the world as well as Ireland's most influential player.

There were further concerns for Ireland with prop Denis Leamy suffering a shoulder injury but the problem is not considered serious.

Ireland won a physical encounter, which saw five players yellow-carded, thanks largely to a hat-trick of tries from Denis Hickie and two from Paul O’Connell.