Ireland flanker Tommy O’Donnell was ruled out of next month’s World Cup yesterday after suffering a dislocated hip against opening warm-up opponents Wales two days ago.

The 28-year-old Munster forward, who has won nine caps, was carried off during the second half after producing an outstanding display as Ireland cruised to a 35-21 victory in Cardiff.

He spent Saturday night in hospital in the Welsh capital and subsequently underwent detailed medical checks.

The Irish Rugby Football Union said: “Investigations at University Hospital Wales yesterday afternoon confirmed that Tommy suffered a hip dislocation in the game against Wales.

“He will be limited to non-weight bearing activity for at least six weeks and has unfortunately been ruled out of participating in RWC15 (Rugby World Cup).”

O’Donnell’s loss will be a blow to Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt as he prepares to continue the tournament build-up with further preparation fixtures against Scotland, Wales and England.

Ireland, the reigning Six Nations champions, will contest the same World Cup pool as France, Italy, Canada and Romania.