How are Ireland set for the Nations Championship?
As Ireland prepare for the northern hemisphere series in the 2026 Nations Championship, BBC Sport NI takes a look at how Andy Farrell's side is shaping up.
Ireland's rugby team, led by coach Andy Farrell, faces Argentina, Fiji, and South Africa in a three-week autumn schedule before the Rugby World Cup. Following a series of poor results against top teams, including defeats by New Zealand, South Africa, and France, Ireland aims to restore their confidence and form. The Springboks captured a 24-13 victory over Ireland last year in Dublin, and the Irish team is determined to avenge that loss.
Assistant coach Johnny Sexton has focused on conditioning as a key differentiator for the team. However, the squad faces challenges, particularly with injuries affecting captains Caelan Doris and Jack Conan, fly-half Sam Prendergast, and lock Garry Ringrose. Ireland's performance against Argentina will be crucial in determining their trajectory towards the World Cup.
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