Ireland’s first Nations Championship window starts with three July Tests against Australia, Japan and New Zealand, but Andy Farrell’s squad will do so without several established players. Dan Sheehan is set to lead the side with Caelan Doris unavailable, while injuries have also affected options in the front row, back row and backline.
The most immediate selection question is at fly-half, where Jack Crowley’s absence leaves Sam Prendergast, Harry Byrne and Ciaran Frawley in contention. Each offers a different case: Prendergast has recent Ireland experience, Byrne has had regular Leinster starts, and Frawley brings versatility across the backline.
The tour also gives Ireland a chance to assess newer squad members. Connacht’s Billy Bohan, Sam Illo and Sean Jansen are among the uncapped names highlighted, while Ulster brothers Zac and Bryn Ward have been brought into the group after withdrawals elsewhere.
The closing fixture against New Zealand carries the strongest historical weight. Ireland won a series in New Zealand in 2022, but the All Blacks have since beaten them in major meetings, and Eden Park remains one of rugby’s hardest venues for visiting sides, with New Zealand unbeaten there since 1994.
Discussion
Sign in to join the discussion.
Sign in / Register