Ireland vs Australia: Dublin Test Match Team News
As the autumn internationals unfold, both Ireland and Australia face challenging beginnings. Ireland suffered a defeat against New Zealand earlier this month. They followed that with a narrow victory over Japan, winning 41-10 in Dublin. Meanwhile, the Wallabies have endured a tough European tour, with losses to England and Italy, leaving them with just one win in their last six matches.
Team News: Ireland and Australia Set for Dublin Test Match
For the upcoming clash on Saturday, Ireland has announced several changes to its lineup. Head coach Andy Farrell has implemented nine adjustments from the previous match against Japan. Notably, Mack Hansen will make his debut as full-back, a chance he wasn’t expected to get due to an earlier injury while playing for Connacht. His inclusion comes as Hugo Keenan and Jamie Osbourne are sidelined.
Sam Prendergast returns as the fly-half, marking his first start since the Six Nations defeat to France in March. The 22-year-old has been competing with Jack Crowley for the position. Stuart McCloskey returns from injury, and Paddy McCarthy earns his first Test start. He impressed in his debut against New Zealand and scored a try in the match against Japan.
Starting Lineup
- Mack Hansen
- Tadhg O’Brien
- Robbie Henshaw
- Stuart McCloskey
- James Lowe
- Sam Prendergast
- Jamison Gibson-Park
- Paddy McCarthy
- Dan Sheehan
- Tadhg Furlong
- James Ryan
- Tadhg Beirne
- Rob Baird
- Caelan Doris (captain)
- Jack Conan
Australia’s Changes
Australia’s head coach, Dave Rennie, has made significant selections as well. James O’Connor will play at fly-half, marking his first Test in the northern hemisphere in four years. He will be paired with Jake Gordon in the half-back position. Other notable inclusions are Len Ikitau in the center and Max Jorgensen returning as full-back.
- Max Jorgensen
- Filipo Daugunu
- Joseph Suaalii
- Len Ikitau
- Henry Potter
- James O’Connor
- Jake Gordon
- Angus Bell
- Matt Faessler
- Allan Alaalatoa
- Jason Williams
- Michael Hooper
- Rob Valetini
- Fraser McReight
- Harry Wilson (captain)
Match Information
The match is scheduled to kick off at 20:10 GMT. Fans can tune in for live radio coverage starting at 20:00 GMT on BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Sounds, with live text updates available on the BBC Sport website. Post-match analysis will be provided by former Ireland star Conor Murray on the Ireland Rugby Social podcast, accessible via BBC Sounds.
