Ireland bring in reinforcements as injuries pile up for Wales game

Ireland have brought in several players to their squad for their upcoming Natwest 6 Nations match with Wales on Saturday, as the injuries continued to mount.

Garry Ringrose didn't make Leinster's squad for their weekend win over the Scarlets, as he continued his recovery from an ankle injury, but that hasn't stopped Joe Schmidt selecting him.

The Irish coach said last week he'd have no hesitation to throw Ringrose back into the starting line-up against Wales, despite a lack of game-time.

Joe Schmidt says Ringrose a contender to start against Wales

Ringrose's return is a welcome boost following Robbie Henshaw's should injury, which has ruled him for up to four months.

Leinster head coach Leo Cullen gives his verdict on Ringrose

Luke McGrath, who picked up a knee injury against the Scarlets, has been replaced by Ulster's John Cooney.

Niall Scannell, who was part of Ireland's 48-hour training camp in Athlone, is back in the extended squad following an elbow injury to Rob Herring in Ulster's game against Edinburgh.

There was good news from the Irish camp with Tadgh Furlong, Iain Henderson and James Ryan "progressing well through their respective rehab programmes", according to a statement from the IRFU.