Tom O'Toole suspended for two Six Nations matches

Tom O'Toole has been hit with a six-match ban
Tom O'Toole has been hit with a six-match ban
©Steve Haag

Ireland’s Six Nations campaign has taken an early hit as prop Tom O’Toole has been handed a six-week suspension.

The ban, stemming from a dangerous play incident in the United Rugby Championship, rules O’Toole out of Ireland’s opening matches against Wales and France.

O’Toole’s suspension follows a red card incident during Ulster’s URC clash against Glasgow Warriors on New Year’s weekend. The 25-year-old was penalized under World Rugby Law 9.12 for striking Glasgow’s George Turner during a breakdown.

The ban was backdated to include the win over Connacht on 28 December which will leave him unavailable for the upcoming games against Leicester, Exeter, Zebre and the two Six Nations matches against England and Ireland on 1st and 8th February.

O’Toole’s absence will be felt as Ireland faces a challenging start to the Six Nations. Head coach Andy Farrell will now need to adjust his front-row options for the opening two matches.

With O’Toole out, the onus could fall on on seasoned campaigners such as Tadhg Furlong and Finlay Bealham to fill the void.

The suspension comes at a time when Ireland is looking to maintain momentum following their strong performances in 2024. O’Toole has been a key figure in the squad, particularly during last year’s Six Nations and Rugby World Cup campaigns.