London Irish have left Paddy Jackson out of their traveling squad for this Friday’s pre-season game against Munster at Irish Independent Park.
It had been previously reported that Jackson could be in line for his debut for the Exiles against the men from southern Ireland. However, a number of people had expressed plans to protest if he played on Irish shores once more leading to the Premiership clubs’ decision.
Jackson, who was found not guilty during
his high-profile court case in Belfast last year, was also left behind for a trip
to Ireland by former employers Perpignan when they travelled to face Connacht
in Galway during the Challenge Cup.
The fly-half’s move to the English side has
also sparked debate among fans and has seen long-term sponsors Diageo cancel their
deal with them.
Only last week the club’s head coach Declan
Kidney backed Jackson for success with his new side but there is no doubt that
whether that happens or not there will be bumps along the way.
In his absence Irish have selected Stephen Myler
and Jacob Atkins as the options at out-half for the annual Jack Wakefield
Memorial Trophy match.
While Jackson will have to wait until at least
the 21st of September to play in his first game when they head to
Kingsholm to face Gloucester.
