Ireland were dealt a big blow with news that star flank Stephen Ferris will miss their tour to New Zealand next month because of a calf injury.

The Irish Rugby Union have confirmed that an injury suffered during the Heineken Cup final against Leinster last weekend will prevent the Ulster flanker from traveling to New Zealand this month.

Leinster's Kevin McLaughlin, who made his Test debut in the 2010 Six Nations match against Italy, will replace Ferris.

There are still a number of positions to be filled in Ireland's 29-man tour squad, which will be confirmed after Tuesday's appointment with the Barbarians in Gloucester.

Ireland face the All Blacks in Auckland, Christchurch and Hamilton between 9 and 23 June.

Planet Rugby