Captain Johnny Sexton and centre Robbie Henshaw have been ruled out of Ireland’s Autumn Nations Cup Test against England at Twickenham on Saturday.

Both players limped off during their campaign opener against Wales this past weekend and, on Monday, it was confirmed that the duo will not be fit in time to face England this Saturday.

A scan has confirmed that Sexton suffered a hamstring injury, while Henshaw sustained an adductor strain.

Worryingly for Ireland coach Andy Farrell, Sexton’s replacement at flyhalf, Billy Burns, who took a knock to the head against Wales, could also be unavailable for selection due to having to follow the return-to-play protocols.

Conor Murray has now emerged as the leading candidate to play flyhalf against England, having done so against Wales after Sexton and Burns were forced off the field.

Photo: INPHO/Billy Stickland