Ireland are already without Murphy

Both were ruled out of the tournament after suffering cruelly-timed injuries over the weekend.

Henderson tore a bicep in Munster's Celtic League win over Leinster on Friday.

It is the latest in a succession of injuries he has suffered since the Lions tour of Australia in 2001.

Murphy, meanwhile, broke his leg in Ireland's victory over Scotland on Saturday.

The full-back was stretchered off after landing awkwardly in a tackle midway through the first half at Murrayfield.

Ireland's fears were confirmed when a scan revealed he had suffered a compound fracture of his left tibia.

Murphy will be out of action for up to four months, meaning he will miss the start of the Heineken Cup and may be doubtful for next year's Six Nations Championship.