All Black Ellis to miss Irish tie with rib injury

All Blacks scrum-half Andy Ellis is to return home to New Zealand after suffering a rib cartilage injury in Saturday's win over Scotland.

New Zealand's medical staff say the player risked suffering a more serious injury if he continued to take part in the current tour of Europe.

The decision to send him home means he will miss the All Blacks' upcoming clashes with Ireland and Munster.