It had been a game that many felt would preempt Sean O'Brien's return to the Ireland team ahead of what could be a Grand Slam-decider against England next weekend.
Yet, after less than half an hour of tonight's game between Leinster and Scarlets, the Carlow-man went off injured with what appeared to be an arm-injury.
Desperately sad to see Sean O'Brien going off In Parc Y Scarlets. That's a cruel blow for him.
— Gerry Thornley (@gerrythornley) March 9, 2018
Not good news for Sean O'Brien. He leaves the field injured 28 minutes into his return.
— Will Slattery (@slatterywill) March 9, 2018
Having recovered from a hip-injury that had plagued him since December, O'Brien was selected to captain Leo Cullen's side on what was his 115th appearance for the province.
What is unquestionably sad news for O'Brien is similarly disappointing news for Ireland. Having played no part in this year's Six Nations thus far, O'Brien's return may well now be delayed longer still.
Leinster's trip to Scarlets would finish with both sides sharing the points after a 10-10 draw.
