Stuart Olding, Ulster, being taken off the field with an injury early in the game

Young Irish prospect Stuart Olding has been hit with the devastating news that he faces nine months on the sidelines, meaning the Ulster man will not take any part in this year's World Cup.

The 22-year-old damaged his ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) against Cardiff Blues last Friday and in a statement today, Ulster rugby confirmed he will undergo surgery.

“Stuart Olding suffered a knee injury in the bonus point win over Cardiff Blues at Kingspan Stadium on Friday night,” read a statement from Ulster.

“An MRI scan has confirmed that he has an ACL injury in his right knee. He will require surgery and will be out of rugby for up to nine months.”

Online Editors