Revealed: The Probable Ireland Team To Face The All Blacks In Chicago
Latest posts by Will Matthews (see all)
- Bad news for Craig Casey and more as Munster Rugby issue squad update - December 16, 2024
- Irish Rugby post cryptic contract signing that has everyone talking - December 15, 2024
- Ireland set to receive massive boost ahead of the Six Nations - December 15, 2024
Joe Schmidt is set to play it safe this Saturday against the All Blacks.
The Kiwi head coach is set to name his team at 6pm tomorrow Irish time but the42’s sources in Chicago, reckon they know what side will more than likely line out on Saturday at Soldier Field.
Rob Kearney is set to start at fullback with Jared Payne back in the centre alongside Robbie Henshaw. Simon Zebo will slot in on the wing in place of the banned Keith Earls while Andrew Trimble is restored to the right wing.
In the pack, Jack McGrath gets the nod over Leinster teammate Cian Healy, while Tadhg Furlong starts ahead of Munster’s in-form John Ryan. Ultan Dillane will reportedly partner Devin Toner at lock.
Interestingly, Jordi Murphy is set to start ahead of Josh Van Der Flier and will be partnered in the backrow by Jamie Heaslip and CJ Stander.
Here’s the reported line-up in full.
15. Rob Kearney
14. Andrew Trimble
13. Jared Payne
12. Robbie Henshaw
11. Simon Zebo
10. Johnny Sexton
9. Conor Murray
1. Jack McGrath
2. Rory Best
3. Tadhg Furlong
4. Devin Toner
5. Ultan Dillane
6. CJ Stander
7. Jordi Murphy
8. Jamie Heaslip
Replacements:
16. Sean Cronin
17. Cian Healy
18. Finlay Bealham
19. Donnacha Ryan
20. Josh van der Flier
21. Kieran Marmion/Luke McGrath
22. Joey Carbery
23. Garry Ringrose
