The Leinster flanker, who missed out on playing in this year’s RBS 6 Nations due to the strength of Ireland’s back-row and an early-season knee injury, broke his radius in the Magners League final loss to Munster last weekend.

Jennings, who has won nine Ireland caps, had expected to have his arm in a plaster for eight weeks, giving it little time to strengthen before the World Cup.

But doctors now believe the plaster can be removed after four weeks, which means Jennings could be back in contention for Ireland’s pre-World Cup warm-up games against Scotland, England and France in August.

“The operation went well and like the rest of the players he has a couple of weeks’ holiday and we’ll see him when he gets back,” said a Leinster spokesman.

However, the injury is still a blow to Jennings’ chances of making it to New Zealand as he has to compete with the likes of David Wallace, Sean O’Brien and Stephen Ferris for Ireland’s flanker spots, although only Wallace and Jennings are natural opensides.

Jennings appeared as a half-time substitute in Leinster’s thrilling Heineken Cup victory over Northampton Saints two weeks ago and his experience and ability at the breakdown ensures he will always be considered for selection if fit.