Ireland pair Brian O'Driscoll and Rory Best have both been ruled out of their country's upcoming international series with injuries.
Skipper O'Driscoll picked up an ankle injury in Leinster's game with Cardiff Blues and it is understood that he will be sidelined for 12 weeks.
Meanwhile, Best suffered sprain ligaments in his neck while playing for Ulster and he will be required undergo a period of rest before he can return.
Ireland begin their autumn series against South Africa in Dublin on November 10.
