SERIOUS INJURY AND sheer bad fortune continue to hit Munster Rugby.

Yesterday, Danis Leamy announced his premature retirement from the game and hot on his heels is Darragh Hurley.

Hurley, 26, has been forced to call time on his short career after a back problem sustained during training in October failed to clear.

The Cork Con man has not featured for the province this season. The last of his 36 appearances came as a replacement for Marcus Horan in the away win over Llanelli Scarlets 13 months ago.

“It is really disappointing to see a young player of such promise have to make this decision.” Munster CEO garret Fitzgerald said in a statement.

“Darragh worked extremely hard to try and overcome his injury difficulties but unfortunately for him and for Munster Rugby, medical advice decided the outcome.

“He was an extremely popular and talented squad member who we wish all the very best to in whatever career he chooses to pursue.”

Hurley is the latest in a string of Munster forwards who have been forced into early retirement including; Jerry Flannery, David Wallace and Leamy.

The news will only increase the amount of rebuilding work required by new head coach, Rob Penney, when he arrives in Ireland following the Junior World Cup.

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