O'Brien ruled out of Six Nations game

Dublin - Ireland flank Sean O'Brien will miss their next Six Nations match against England at Twickenham due to a hamstring injury, coach Joe Schmidt said on Monday.

Winger Dave Kearney is also very doubtful for the game on February 27 with a shoulder injury and lock Mike McCarthy (concussion) and centre Jared Payne (hamstring) are also struggling to be fit.

Flyhalf Johnny Sexton, however, should be available after recovering from a whiplash injury.

"He is feeling a lot better," Schmidt told the Irish Rugby Football Union website (www.irishrugby.ie).

Ireland, Six Nations champions for the last two years, drew with Wales in their opener and lost 10-9 in France on Saturday.