Irish fly-half Jonathan Sexton has been ruled out of the Rugby World Cup quarter-final clash against Argentina with a minor injury.
The 30-year-old limped off after 20 minutes of their match with France last week but initial scans looked positive for him being fit for the quarter-final.
Ireland boss Joe Schmidt had also insisted that the Leinster man would be fit for the clash but further scans yesterday revealed that Sexton has a minor adductor strain and will not be risked.
Ian Madigan will take his place in the starting lineup, while Paddy Jackson will be promoted to the bench for the game against the Pumas on Sunday.
A statement on the Irish Rugby website read: "After training yesterday in Cardiff, Jonathan Sexton tightened up and although scans earlier in the week were normal, a further scan yesterday afternoon revealed a very minor adductor strain.
"It was therefore felt that it was better to withdraw him from the game rather than risk further injury. Ian Madigan will start at out-half and Paddy Jackson comes onto the bench."
Ireland are looking to reach their first-ever Rugby World Cup semi-final at their sixth attempt.
Nathan Staples
