Ireland hooker Rory Best is expected to be fit for the start of the RBS 6 Nations Championship after receiving positive news on his injured right ankle.
The Ulster captain underwent a scan this morning which confirmed he suffered sprained ligaments during his side’s 29-0 Boxing Day defeat to Leinster.
Best will be sidelined for "three to four weeks" and Ulster are confident he will be fit for the 6 Nations "as the scan showed no further bony or structural damage to his right ankle."
Ireland coach Eddie O’Sullivan will announce an extended 6 Nations squad on January 14 ahead of their opening fixture against Italy at Croke Park on February 2.