Dublin - Loose forward Josh van der Flier will miss Ireland's forthcoming tour of South Africa after undergoing ankle surgery, his club Leinster announced on Wednesday.
The 23-year-old flank broke into Ireland's Test XV during the Six Nations, but has been ruled out for two months.
He will also miss Leinster's Celtic League semi-final against Ulster in Dublin on May 20.
"Josh van der Flier saw a specialist on Monday, having injured his ankle against Ulster, and following further review it was decided that Josh should have an operation to repair the damage," Leinster said in a statement.
"He had surgery yesterday and it was a success, but he will be out for eight weeks."
Der Flier was among 44 players who attended a one-day training camp last month, which saw head coach Joe Schmidt begin preparations for June's three Tests in South Africa.