Ferris out of 6 Nations opener

Stephen Ferris has been confirmed as unfit for selection for Ireland's opening game of the RBS 6 Nations Championship against Italy following a consultation with a knee specialist.

Ferris picked up a cartilage injury to his right knee during the Ulster Heineken Cup game against Aironi and was unable to train with the Ireland squad last week during the Limerick camp, a statement from the Irish rugby camp said.