Overview
- Leinster confirmed Jack Boyle has damaged his Achilles tendon and will undergo a procedure this week, ruling the 23-year-old out for a lengthy spell.
- Ireland have drafted in uncapped Connacht prop Billy Bohan to replace Boyle and added Ulster's Cormac Izuchukwu for Tom Ahern, with both joining the pre-tournament camp in Portugal.
- With Andrew Porter and Paddy McCarthy already unavailable, Ireland's remaining loosehead options are Jeremy Loughman, Michael Milne and Bohan, who have limited Test experience.
- Head coach Andy Farrell called Boyle's loss devastating and said the injury list is larger than normal, with Robert Baloucoune still being assessed and a possible later return for Porter not yet dated.
- The squad assembled at the IRFU High Performance Centre and travels to Portugal before facing France at the Stade de France on February 5.