RWC 2015: Jonathan Sexton ruled out of Ireland vs Argentina with groin strain injury with Ian Madigan called up

Ian Madigan will start in place of Sexton with Paddy Jackson called up to the replacements

(2015 Getty Images)

Jonatah Sexton has been ruled out of Ireland’s Rugby World Cup quarter-final with Argentina on Sunday after suffering a setback in his recovery from a groin strain.

The fly-half limped out of Ireland’s victory over France last weekend and looked to be a doubt for the last-eight contest in Cardiff, only to recover in time to retain his place in Joe Schmidt’s starting XV.

However, after taking part in training on Friday, Sexton is said to have “tightened up” and a further scan showed a minor adductor strain that will prevent him from facing the Pumas.

His Leinster team-mate Ian Madigan will deputise at outside-half in Sexton’s absence, while Ulster’s Paddy Jackson joins the replacements’ bench.

An Irish Rugby Football Union statement read: “Johnny Sexton has been ruled out of Ireland's Rugby World Cup Quarter Final clash with Argentina. Ian Madigan will start with Paddy Jackson on the bench.

“Post training yesterday Johnny Sexton tightened up and although scans earlier in the week were normal a further scan yesterday afternoon revealed a very minor adductor strain.

“It was therefore felt that it was better to withdraw him from the game rather than risk further injury. Ian Madigan will start at out-half and Paddy Jackson comes onto the bench.”

Ireland have also confirmed that Leinster scrum-half Isaac Boss has been called up to the squad as an injury replacement for Ulster centre Jared Payne after he was ruled out for the rest of the tournament with a fractured foot.