Baloucoune and Loughman return for Ireland's match against New Zealand
BBC Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 14, 2026, 10:47 AM
Last updated Jul 14, 2026
Ireland assistant coach Andrew Goodman has confirmed that Rob Baloucoune and Jeremy Loughman are fit to play in the Nations Championship match against New Zealand on July 15 at Eden Park. Both players missed recent matches due to injuries but have returned to training with the squad. Ireland is looking to end New Zealand's 52-game unbeaten streak at this venue, having lost their last three encounters with the All Blacks. The team has won its last six matches, and Goodman emphasized the importance of player form in selecting the starting lineup for the match.
- •Rob Baloucoune and Jeremy Loughman are back from injury.
- •Ireland faces New Zealand on July 15 at Eden Park.
- •Ireland targets an end to New Zealand's 52-game unbeaten run there.
- •Goodman highlights form as a factor in team selection.
- •Ireland has lost the last three meetings with New Zealand.
- 10:47 AMBBC Sport — Baloucoune and Loughman fit to face New Zealand
"Ireland assistant Andrew Goodman confirms that Rob Baloucoune and Jeremy Loughman are fit ahead of Saturday's Nations Championship match against New Zealand at Eden Park.
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