Munster Rugby captain, Paul O'Connell, has been ruled out of Ireland's upcoming tour to New Zealand.
O'Connell had been undergoing rehabilitation on a knee injury in London with a view to following the Ireland squad out to New Zealand, but he has failed to progress to the level required to allow him take an active part in the tour.
Connacht Rugby forward Mike McCarthy has already been added to the Ireland squad as further cover in the back five area of the forwards.
Ireland, who have ERC European Player of the Year 2012 Rob Kearney in the 30-man party, will play three tests against the world champions.