Leavy and O’Brien hand Ireland and Leinster fitness boost

DAN LEAVY will hand Joe Schmidt a timely boost before the official year-long countdown to the Rugby World Cup kicks off on Thursday after the back-rower was declared fit for Leinster’s weekend clash against Edinburgh.

And in more positive news for the Irish coach, Sean O’Brien returned to training with the province yesterday as he continues on the comeback trail.

Leavy emerged as one of the key pillars of the Irish back-row in O’Brien’s absence during an incredible season for club and country last term but, after damaging a rib on the summer tour to Australia, he then underwent shoulder surgery.

“He has worked so hard so it’s great to have him back,” said Leinster assistant coach Felipe Contepomi.

Meanwhile, Munster are anxiously awaiting results of a scan on John Ryan’s ankle. The tighthead prop limped out of Friday’s win over Ospreys and was in Dublin yesterday for tests. The province fear the Ireland international could miss their interprovincial games against Ulster and Leinster ahead of their European games against Exeter Chiefs and Castres.

They have an issue at No 3 this week with Stephen Archer coming back from the concussion he suffered against Ospreys.

There was better news on the out-half front with Tyler Bleyendaal returning to full team training.

Meanwhile, referees in Ulster are refusing to officiate at Coleraine’s home matches after a female referee was verbally abused at the club last season and the Ulster Branch have been forced to intervene.

Even though disciplinary action was taken against the club by the Ulster Rugby authorities in April, the protest by referees is continuing.