Ireland outside-half Jonny Sexton could miss the remainder of the Six Nations due to ligament damage suffered to his thumb.
The 28-year-old returned to club side Racing Metro following Ireland's 13-10 defeat to England last weekend, and the French side have revealed that he is likely to miss between 10 days and six weeks.
Sexton's injury is expected to force him out of Ireland's match against Italy in Dublin on March 8, while a return against France in Paris the following weekend could come too soon.
Ireland top the Six Nations table after three games, but are now tied on points with England, Wales and France.
