Ireland's team to face New Zealand in the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals was released on Wednesday, and in case you didn't catch the announcement, here it is:
Andy Farrell named an unchanged starting team from last weekend’s victory over Scotland. However, this was because James Ryan was omitted from the starting lineup due to injury concerns. Ian Henderson keeps his place and replaces him. Tadhg Bierne also starts as Ireland's other lock.
James Lowe and Mack Hansen, who had both been doubtful, have been passed fit for the clash against New Zealand. They join Hugo Keenan in the back three.
Dan Sheehan and Mack Hansen of Ireland both start for Ireland. (Photo by Franco Arland/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images)Garry Ringrose and Bundee Aki are retained in midfield. Captain Johnny Sexton and Jamison Gibson-Park once again form the half-back pairing.
In the front row, Andrew Porter, Dan Sheehan, and Tadhg Furlong are starting. Peter O’Mahony, Josh van der Flier, and Caelan Doris complete the Ireland starting team.
The replacements are Ronan Kelleher, Dave Kilcoyne, Finlay Bealham, Joe McCarthy, Jack Conan, Conor Murray, Jack Crowley, and Jimmy O’Brien.
If Ireland win, it will be their first-ever advancement beyond the quarter-final stages of the tournament.
Saturday’s match is live on Virgin Media One in the Republic of Ireland and ITV1 in the United Kingdom.
Fullback. 15. Hugo Keenan
Winger. 14. Mack Hansen
Centres. 13.Gary Ringrosw 12.Bundee Aki
Winger 11. James Lowe
Outlhalf 10. Johnny Sexton Scrumhalf 9 Jamison Gibson-Park
Front row. 1. Andrew Porter, 2. Dan Sheehan 3. Tadhg Furlong
Second row. 4 Ian Henderson 5. Tadgh Bierne
Back row 6. Peter O’Mahony, 7. Josh van der Flier 8. Caelan Doris
Replacments: Ronan Kelleher, Dave Kilcoyne, Finlay Bealham, Joe McCarthy, Jack Conan, Conor Murray, Jack Crowley and Jimmy O’Brien
Quarter-final ready 💪
Here comes the @IrishRugby side to take on New Zealand in Paris#RWC2023 | #IREvNZL pic.twitter.com/DTp0RsoTwi— Rugby World Cup (@rugbyworldcup) October 11, 2023
