Ireland’s worst fears over hooker Rory Best could be realised as it seems the Ulster player is ‘a long shot’ to be fit for the World Cup quarter-final against Wales on Saturday.
The front-row stalwart sprained the AC joint in his shoulder in the win over Italy and while initial reports were optimistic, it is now confirmed that Munster’s Mike Sherry has left Ireland to join up with Declan Kidney’s squad, a sure sign that Best’s injury is serious.
Speaking from Wellington assistant coach Mark Tainton said: “The medical team has worked hard with Rory over the last 24 hours and he’s reacted well to it and we’re very pleased with the response. He’s not totally ruled out.”
“His chances at the moment, they’re long. He’s doubtful for this weekend but he’s not ruled out of the competition.”
Sherry is expected to arrive in New Zealand on Thursday, but it would be Sean Cronin who would likely fill the number two shirt.
“I’ve been in this situation before,” Cronin said. “In the autumn internationals just gone by Rory picked up a bad injury against the All Blacks, so I had to come on early in that game and prepare for the following week against Argentina. Obviously it’s a different level here at the World Cup but I’ve done it before,” said the Leinster man.
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