WALES scrum-half Kieran Hardy has been ruled out of the bid for the Six Nations title because of a hamstring injury.

The Scarlets ace scored a try in the 40-24 win against England that secured the Triple Crown but was suffered a blow later in the match.

He will miss the fixtures against Italy and France as Wayne Pivac’s men hunt a Grand Slam and title triumph.

The WRU said: “Kieran has been released from the squad due to a hamstring injury suffered in the game versus England on Saturday.

“He will continue his rehabilitation back at the Scarlets.”

Tomos Williams has not played since suffering a hamstring injury against the Irish with Gareth Davies and Lloyd Williams the other 9s in the squad.

Rhys Webb has been in superb form for the Ospreys since missing out but is unlikely to be called up unless there is another blow.