Unlucky Connacht lose out-half Jack Carty after bizarre water slide accident

Another entry in the odd injuries Hall of Fame, but one which looks set to deprive Connacht of star out-half Jack Carty for a crucial part of the season.

The 23-year-old used the province's week off to take a well-earned break in Dubai but suffered a ruptured spleen in what Connacht have described as "an unfortunate accident on a water slide". The playmaking No.10 will now be out for a crucial period of Connacht's season as they look to remain in the race for a the Pro12 play-offs and a place in next season's Champions Cup. A statement from the team read: "While on holiday in Dubai last week, out-half Jack Carty suffered an unfortunate accident on a water slide. "Following medical review, it was confirmed that the 23-year-old ruptured his spleen. The Athlone man has had the spleen removed and will spend another week in hospital in Dubai. At this stage, the recovery time is likely to be between one and three months." There was better news for others on the injury front, with JP Cooney cleared for action after coming through a club game for Garryowen and hooker Jason Harris-Wright also available for Thursday's game against Dragons after clearing concussion protocols. Wing Matt Healy and second row Sean O'Brien are both still going through the return to play process but are also hopeful of being able to face the Welsh region.