Sexton's ex-Ireland teammate tackles online abuse in wake of loss to England

Former Ireland and Leinster prop Mike Ross has shared some of the abuse that Ireland captain Jonathan Sexton received in the wake of his country’s loss to England on Sunday. 

Ireland were blown away by the English in the Guinness Six Nations encounter at Twickenham and the trolls didn’t hold back in criticising Andy Farrell’s new captain despite the Be Kind campaign on social media.

The online promotion has players urging fans to refrain from abusing players, but the problem is still something that is rife.

Sexton had an afternoon to forget at Twickenham as his wayward kicking was compounded by an error that led to George Ford’s opening try. 

Behind a pack that rarely generated any front foot ball, the 2018 World Rugby player of the year struggled and Ross, who played alongside Sexton for many years in the green of Ireland and the blue of Leinster, took to Twitter to call out the abuse.

People on social media are entitled to mention that the 34-year-old may not have had his greatest game by his illustrious standards, but no player deserves to be on the end such derisive comments. 

Twitter lends itself to discussions and debate amongst fans, but there is nothing constructive about wanton abuse. 

After such a long career, such comments will surely not faze Sexton as he will undoubtedly bounce back. Nonetheless, this type of issue is something that could affect the mental well-being of others who are on the receiving end of social media abuse. 

WATCH: Andy Farrell and Johnny Sexton react to Ireland's Six Nations loss to England