Sport: Rugby Country: Australia Category: Injuries

Ireland prepares for Nations Championship with debutants and injury concerns

BBC Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 1, 2026, 4:00 PM

Last updated Jul 1, 2026

Ireland prepares for Nations Championship with debutants and injury concerns

Summary

Ireland's rugby squad looks to kick off the Nations Championship on July 18 with matches against Australia, Japan, and New Zealand at Eden Park. The squad is experiencing significant injuries, including the absence of captain Caelan Doris and fly-half Jack Crowley. With goals of replicating past success from the last World Cup cycle, Ireland aims to establish strong performances despite missing several key players. Coach Andy Farrell emphasizes that injuries provide opportunities for less experienced players, with five uncapped athletes in the lineup, including Sam Prendergast and new call-up Sean Jansen.

Source Links

BBC Sport

Status Watch

•Ireland begins the Nations Championship on July 18 against New Zealand.
•Caelan Doris and Jack Crowley are unavailable due to injuries.
•Sam Prendergast is a key player vying for the fly-half position.
•New additions include five uncapped players from Connacht and Ulster.
•Ireland aims to build on past successes in New Zealand.

Latest Updates

4:00 PMBBC Sport — Fly-half duel, debuts & trip to NZ fortress beckon for Ireland

What they're saying

"
With just over a year until the World Cup, injury-hit Ireland look to begin the inaugural Nations Championship with victories over Australia, Japan and New Zealand.
— BBC Sport

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