Leinster injury update: hooker cover signed, Doris returns

Leo Cullen has confirmed that Leinster have signed former Ireland U20s hooker Tadgh McElroy on a short-term contract.

The Dundalk native is a former Ireland U-20 international and has played for Saracens, Bristol Bears, Ealing Trailfinders and most recently London Irish over the last few seasons.

He joins the Province as the injury list continues to grow following a grueling match against the Sharks.

Rhys Ruddock, Luke McGrath and Ryan Baird were all withdrawn for Head Injury Assessments against the Sharks and have all now entered the Graduated Return to Play Protocols.

Jordan Larmour was withdrawn with a foot injury in the first half against Sharks and will also be unavailable this week as further tests are carried out on his injury.

Cullen has confirmed that Ireland international Caelan Doris is available for selection this week having come through the Graduated Return to Play Protocols. While both Dave Kearney and Jack Conan need further assessment this week before a final decision will be made on their involvement at the weekend.

There were no further updates on Rónan Kelleher (hamstring), Ciarán Frawley (shoulder), Hugo Keenan (abdominal & knee injury), James Lowe (calf), James Tracy (neck), Charlie Ryan (knee) and Tommy O’Brien (knee).

Commenting on the signing of McElroy, Cullen had this to say: “Tadgh has performed really well over a number of games with the ‘A’ team.

“He’s a good addition to the squad over the next few months and has taken his chance well over the last few games and we wish him well.”