Ireland’s scrum anchor could miss his first Six Nations match in five years

Mike Ross is in danger of missing his major Ireland Test match since 2010.

Mike Ross is in danger of missing his first major Ireland Test match since 2010.

Leinster have confirmed that the tighthead prop is facing up to six weeks out of action with a severe hamstring strain, which means that Ross could also miss the start of Ireland's Six Nations title defence.

The 36-year-old limped off during the first-half of Saturday's defeat to Toulon that ended Leinster's already slender chances of reaching the Champions Cup knock-out stages.

Johnny Sexton was also replaced after an hour with a quad strain which makes him a doubt for this Sunday's Pro12 derby against Munster at Thomond Park.

However Sean O'Brien could be available for the trip to Limerick after returning to full training this week.

Munster are also heading into Sunday's derby off the back of a disappointing European defeat, with both sides hoping to get a much-needed victory.