Why isn’t Conor Murray playing for Ireland against Italy in Six Nations today and when will scrum-half return?

IRELAND are taking on Italy today and will be expecting a win against the Six Nations whipping boys.

But they'll have to do it without scrum-half Conor Murray.

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Why isn't Conor Murray playing for Ireland against Italy?

Conor Murray picked up a hamstring injury in training before Ireland's game against France.

The official Ireland rugby account tweeted: "Unfortunately @ConorMurray_9 picked up a hamstring strain in training this week and has been ruled out of Sunday's game.

"Wishing you a speedy recovery, Conor!"

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As a result of Murray's injury, Leinster's Jamison Gibson-Park will start for the Irish against Italy.

If the injury is a minor strain, Conor Murray may be back for the final two rounds.

If it is a tear or a serious injury, that could well rule Murray out of the tournament.

After Italy, Ireland play Scotland on March 14 and England in their final match on March 20.

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