Leinster to be without Johnny Sexton for Champions Cup semi-final against La Rochelle

Leinster have been dealt a major blow ahead of their Heineken Champions Cup semi-final against La Rochelle on Sunday after skipper Johnny Sexton ruled out of the encounter.

The Ireland captain has not recovered completely from concussion symptoms after taking a blow on his head during the victorious quarter-final game against Exeter Chiefs. He also had a head injury previously during the Pro14 final victory over Munster.

“Unavailable for selection, Johnny Sexton: will continue to train and be assessed as part of the graduated return to play process," read a statement from the Irish club.

The news also means that Sexton will not have any opportunity to play a game before the British and Irish Lions head coach Warren Gatland set to announce the squad for the South Africa tour on 6th May.

Leinster also confirmed that James Ryan and Garry Ringrose, who recently returned from injuries are set to be available for the weekend encounter while Jamison Gibson-Park, Caelan Doris and Harry Byrne will be assessed this week on their respective injuries ahead of the selection.

Leinster have won the European Champions Cup four times with their last triumph coming in 2018 when they defeated Racing 92 in the final.