Ulster and Ireland second row has been ruled out of the Six Nations round three meeting with Italy, after a positive Covid-19 test. Meanwhile, team captain Jonathan Sexton has returned to fitness and is available for selection
Last Updated: 23/02/22 3:52pm
Henderson will miss Sunday’s meeting with Italy
Ireland lock Iain Henderson has been ruled out of Sunday’s Guinness Six Nations clash with Italy after testing positive for Covid-19.
The Ulster captain produced the result during routine testing when the Irish squad and management arrived into camp on Monday evening.Henderson, who turned 30 on Monday, is isolating at home after the positive case was confirmed. “Iain Henderson produced a positive Covid result during the routine testing of squad and management upon arrival into camp on Monday evening,” read a statement from the Irish Rugby Football Union.”The positive result has since been confirmed. Iain is well and has left Ireland camp to complete his period of isolation at home.”British and Irish Lion Henderson missed Ireland’s opening Six Nations win over Wales with an ankle injury before returning as a replacement in the 30-24 loss to France on February 12. Henderson could return for the round four trip to Twickenham Head coach Andy Farrell selected Tadhg Beirne to partner James Ryan in the second row for each of those games.”There are no other positive results within the group and the squad will continue to test across the week,” the IRFU statement added.Sexton available for SundayMeanwhile, Ireland captain Jonathan Sexton has confirmed that he is available for selection against the Italians. The out-half …