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Paul O'Connell's international career is over after the Ireland captain tore his hamstring during Sunday's World Cup victory over France.
The 35-year-old is moving to French side Toulon after the tournament having being released early from his dual Munster and Ireland contract.
Iain Henderson, who replaced O'Connell, is likely to start Sunday's quarter-final game with Argentina in Cardiff.
Number eight Jamie Heaslip will lead the team in O'Connell's absence.
"Paul O'Connell suffered a significant hamstring injury and will undergo surgery this week," said an Irish Rugby statement.
"Paul will not play again at Rugby World Cup 2015 and his time out of the game will depend on the outcome of the surgery."
Recognised as one of the best second rows in world rugby, O’Connell was named as Ireland captain for the 2012 RBS Six Nations.
A British & Irish Lions Test player in 2005, he went on to captain the Lions on their tour to South Africa in 2009.
An IRB World Player of the Year nominee in 2006, he also skippered Munster to Heineken Cup glory in May player in 2005, 2009 and 2013, indeed he captained the Lions on their tour to South Africa in 2009.
An IRB World Player of the Year nominee in 2006, he also skippered Munster to Heineken Cup glory in May 2008.
Factfile
DOB:20th Oct 1979
Birthplace Limerick, Ireland
Height 1.98 m (6' 6")
Weight 112 kg (17 st 8 lb)
Position Lock
Honours Ireland (108 caps)
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