Centre Shane Horgan has been ruled out of Grand Slam-chasing Ireland's RBS 6 Nations match against France on March 12.
Horgan fractured his thumb in his sides victory over England on Sunday and has been ruled out of the next fixture at Lansdowne Road after seeing a specialist.
Ireland are still hopeful he may be able to feature in their final game of the tournament against Wales on March 19.
Fellow centre Gordon DArcy is continuing to make good progress in his recovery from a hamstring injury.
DArcy missed the victories over Scotland and England but the Irish management are confident he will be available for selection against France. A decision will be made later in the week.