Positive injury prognosis ahead of Italy game

The Ireland team had their first run out in the famous Carisbrook Stadium, Dunedin today ahead of their final Rugby World Cup Pool C game against Italy next Sunday.

Rob Kearney (bruised knee), Keith Earls (bruised leg) and Sean O’Brien (bruised arm) all sat out the session as a precaution to give another 24 hours rest to allow their injuries to settle, but all three are expected to return to training tomorrow.

Tommy Bowe (calf) and Paul O’Connell (hamstring) both took part in some light training and it is hoped that they will both be able to step up their training levels at tomorrow’s session.

Gordon D’Arcy has also continued his recovery programme from a hamstring strain and took a full part in the session today without any reaction.