Ireland's win over Scotland last night was a brilliant one, but it did not come without some potentially significant cost.
A big victory over the Scots was always going to make a major statement of intent, especially with a Rugby World Cup quarter-final against New Zealand on the horizon. In saying that, some knocks picked in the game could make their task against the All Blacks all the more difficult.
Mack Hansen and James Lowe were both withdrawn in the game due to injury, with the players suffering with hamstring and eye ailments respectively. It will be hoped that they will be fit for next weekend.
The news on James Ryan looks less positive.
The second row picked up an injury not long after coming off the bench in the second half, with doubts now present about his availability to play New Zealand. The Irish Independent suggest he is the most serious injury concern as things stand.
One comment picked up by the televisions cameras after the game would support this suggestion.
Worrying James Ryan comment picked up by TV cameras
While most of the Irish players were celebrating on the pitch after last night's game, James Ryan cut a far more reserved figure.
He could be seen conversing with Caelan Doris and Ronan Kelleher after the final whistle, where it appeared as though he said he might have broken his hand.
"Think I broke my hand!" ???? 🙈 #IREvSCO pic.twitter.com/2kmUC1zYhL
— Kev Boyd (@Boydkev2) October 7, 2023
Such an injury would bring his World Cup to a premature end.
Along with the trio injured last night, Ireland also have lingering concerns around the fitness of Robbie Henshaw and Keith Earls. As a result, Andy Farrell could be looking to make some additions to his squad over the next couple of days.
Should that be the case, the likes of Cian Healy and Jacob Stockdale will come under consideration.
Considering his form over the last couple of years, this would be a cruel end to the World Cup for James Ryan.
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