Ireland will be without Tadhg Furlong in their Autumn Nations Series opener against New Zealand, after Andy Farrell confirmed the tighthead prop suffered a “slight hamstring strain”.
Furlong’s absence has opened the door for Finlay Bealham to deputise at No. 3, while Ronan Kelleher has been deemed fit to start against the All Blacks following his recovery from an ankle issue – replacing the injured Dan Sheehan.
“I am really pleased with the effort of the squad across the week’s training camp in Portugal,” Farrell said ahead of Friday’s clash – which will be shown live on TNT Sports and discovery+, the home of the Autumn Nations Series.
“Since assembling at the IRFU High Performance Centre last week, the players have brought real application to training and it’s great to see a number of players back from injury, which is testament to their diligence and the superb work of the medical team.
“It’s a hugely exciting four weeks ahead in Aviva Stadium and we know we’ll need to perform at a high level to beat a top-class New Zealand side.
“The challenge doesn’t come much bigger or better than New Zealand at a packed Aviva Stadium on a Friday night, under lights, with a home crowd roaring us on.”
Caelan Doris has been named captain in the back row, having gradually taken the mantle from Peter O’Mahony, who has been named on the bench.
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GRAHAM OUT FOR SCOTLAND V SOUTH AFRICA
Darcy Graham, meanwhile, has been ruled out on concussion grounds as Scotland face South Africa live on TNT Sports and discovery+ on Sunday. Graham spearheaded his side to a 57-17 hammering over Fiji in their Autumn opener, running home four tries with a dominant performance before being hauled off on 66 minutes, with the winger subsequently failing a head injury assessment (HIA).
“He’ll do nothing for the next three days, then he starts the graduated return to play,” head coach Gregor Townsend said.
“If everything goes well and he’s feeling good, he’ll be available for Portugal [on November 16].”
Scotland are, however, set to see returns for the influential trio of Blair Kinghorn, Arron Reed, and vice-captain Finn Russell.
TNT Sports and discovery+ will be providing all the action as Ireland take on New Zealand, Italy face Argentina and France meet Japan. Scotland battle with 2023 World Cup winners South Africa on Sunday while Wales clash with Fiji.
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