Baird and Osborne could miss start of Six Nations

Ryan Baird and Jamie Osborne are major doubts for the start of Ireland's 2026 Six Nations campaign because of injury.

Versatile forward Baird, who was forced off in Ireland's 24-13 defeat by world champions South Africa on Saturday with a leg injury, will be out for "up to three months", according to his club Leinster.

Speaking after the loss to the Springboks, Ireland boss Andy Farrell said Baird - who started all four autumn Tests - suffered a suspected fractured tibia.

Osborne is facing a four-month spell on the sidelines with the shoulder injury he sustained in Ireland's win over Japan.

Ireland begin their Six Nations campaign with a trip to holders France on 5 February.

In their squad update, Leinster also confirmed wing Tommy O'Brien, who suffered a head injury against South Africa, and centre Robbie Henshaw (hamstring) will also miss Friday's United Rugby Championship match away to Dragons.

Leinster boss Leo Cullen will also be without Will Connors and James Culhane, who picked up arm and knee injuries respectively in Leinster 50-24 victory over Zebre last month.

There is good news for Cullen and Farrell, however, with lock Joe McCarthy entering the final stage of his rehabilitation from a foot injury he sustained during the first British and Irish Lions Test against Australia in July.

Leinster said he will "be further assessed as the week continues" but added there are no further updates on the fitness of Cormac Foley (calf) and Hugo Keenan (hip).