Best to leave hospital in 24-48 hours

Ireland prop Simon Best is expected to return home within the next 24 to 48 hours following an encouraging update on his condition.

Tests carried out today at Haut Leveque – one of France’s leading cardiological hospitals – have enabled specialists to eliminate neurological problems as the source of his condition.

Best, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the World Cup, was rushed to Bordeaux’s Pellegrin Hospital last night after developing a loss of sensation down his right side.

The 29-year-old Ulster front row also complained of a mild headache and a difficulty in speaking and underwent a series of tests, including an MRI scan, an angiogram and a CT.

Doctors now believe that the symptoms are related to a cardiac issue, but an exact diagnosis of the problem has yet to be determined.

Best, who transferred hospitals this morning, is comfortable and all his symptoms have resolved. He has been joined by his wife Katie, who arrived in Bordeaux this afternoon.

He will remain in hospital for further tests and it is hoped that he will be able to return home in the next 24 to 48 hours.

Ireland Coach Eddie O'Sullivan said: ``This is very positive news for Simon and we will continue to monitor his progress carefully.

“The care he has received so far has been excellent and team doctor Gary O’Driscoll has been with him throughout.”

Meanwhile, O’Sullivan has opted for Jerry Flannery over Simon’s brother Rory at hooker for Sunday’s group finale against Argentina in Paris.

Flannery (shoulder) and Best (dislocated thumb) both passed fitness tests this afternoon after O’Sullivan had left the hooking duties open at Tuesday’s team announcement.

The Ireland boss admitted Simon’s condition shaped his decision to name Rory on the bench.

He continued: “We have named Rory Best among the substitutes.

“We did consider his brother Simon’s condition when making that decision but Rory is a mentally tough individual and was adamant that he wanted to be considered for selection.

“We have no doubts that he will be ready if called upon.”