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Sheehan dismisses Irish rugby decline ahead of Nations Championship matches

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 5, 2026, 5:39 PM

Last updated Nov 5, 2026

Sheehan dismisses Irish rugby decline ahead of Nations Championship matches

Summary

Ireland captain Dan Sheehan expressed confidence in his team as he rejected claims of a decline in Irish rugby. Speaking before their matches against Argentina, Fiji, and South Africa, Sheehan emphasized the need for the squad to focus on their strengths and work ethic. Despite recent heavy losses to top teams, he believes the group possesses the talent necessary to improve. Ireland, currently ranked third in the world, has six wins from eight Tests this year. Coach Andy Farrell acknowledged that the team is not fully ready for next year’s World Cup in Australia, urging for continued development.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Dan Sheehan captains Ireland in Caelan Doris' absence.
•Ireland aims to build confidence before facing Argentina on Friday.
•They have lost to France and New Zealand in recent matches.
•Ireland won six of eight Tests this year, including the Six Nations Triple Crown.
•Farrell notes the team needs to improve heading into the World Cup.

Latest Updates

5:39 PMYahoo Sports — Talk of Irish rugby's decline 'nonsense' - Sheehan

What they're saying

"
Ireland captain Dan Sheehan says he has "full confidence" in his team-mates as he dismissed talk of a decline in Irish rugby as "nonsense".
— Yahoo Sports

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