Ireland lock Paul O'Connell will miss the Six Nations rugby championship after a back operation this week but hopes to return in early April in time for the British and Irish Lions' tour of Australia starting in June.
O'Connell who captained the Lions during their last tour in South Africa four years ago, has played only two games for his provincial side Munster this season and last started for Ireland during last year's Six Nations.
Meanwhile Ulster winger Bowe has also been ruled out of the championship, which Ireland begin in Wales on Febuary 2, because of a knee injury.
