Golden blow for Ireland
Wakefield rugby league back-row forward Jason Golden has been ruled out of Ireland’s World Cup plans through injury.
The 22-year-old former Leeds junior, who will join Harlequins next season, was hoping to make his debut for Ireland after being named in coach Andy Kelly’s initial 40-strong squad.
“He has an injury that needs some maintenance work and he couldn’t put the surgery off,” said Kelly.
Kelly’s options have been further reduced by the loss of Featherstone half-back Paul Handforth, who has been handed an eight-match ban by the Rugby Football League for using foul and abusive language and striking a touch judge’s shoulder.
