O'Driscoll 'fractures cheekbone' - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

O'Driscoll 'fractures cheekbone'

Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll has been taken to hospital with a fractured cheekbone after being punched during Ireland's match with Bayonne on Thursday night, according to a spokesman for the French club.

Centre O'Driscoll, considered one of the world's best backs, was forced to leave the pitch during the second half of his side's 42-6 win at Stade Jean Dauger after being struck by lock Mikaera Tewhata.

A Bayonne spokesman confirmed coach Eddie O'Sullivan's worst fears after the match, although the Irish camp would not be drawn on the extent of O'Driscoll's injury until after further hospital tests are conducted.

The IRFU are expected to release a statement on O'Driscoll later, and with Ireland's first game in the forthcoming World Cup just 24 days away, his participation now appears to be in doubt.

There was better news concerning flanker Denis Leamy, who was also taken off during the match with a shoulder injury, with an Ireland spokesman confirming his problem is not serious.

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