Ireland's team to face Italy in the opening game of the Bank of Ireland Nations Series at Aviva Stadium (Kick-off 8pm) was named this week.
Andy Farrell has included three uncapped players in his matchday 23. Ciaran Frawley, Calvin Nash and Tom Stewart could make their Ireland debuts from the bench.
Iain Henderson is set to captain the team for the second time, following his previous game against France in February 2021. The Ulster player will earn his 73rd Test cap in the green jersey, teaming up with Joe McCarthy in the Ireland second row.
The backrow will consist entirely of Leinster players, with Ryan Baird, Caelan Doris, and Jack Conan forming a formidable trio. The starting front row includes David Kilcoyne, who will be joined by Ulster duo Rob Herring and Tom O’Toole.
Keith Earls is on track to make his 99th appearance for Ireland and is slated to start on the right wing in a back three alongside Jimmy O’Brien and Jacob Stockdale.
The half-back partnership will feature Munster's Craig Casey and Jack Crowley. In the midfield, Stuart McCloskey will line up with Robbie Henshaw to complete the starting lineup.
Ireland's game kicks-off at 8pm later this evening.
Our first line up of the summer! 🟢#TeamOfUs
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) August 3, 2023
Ireland Starting XV:
Fullback: 15. Jimmy O’Brien
Winger: 14. Keith Earls
Centres: 13. Robbie Henshaw 12. Stuart McCloskey
Winger: 11J acob Stockdale
Outhalf: 10 Jack Crowley Scrumhalf: 9. Craig Casey
Front Row: 1. David Kilcoyne 2. Rob Herring 3. Tom O’Toole
Second Row: 4.Iain Henderson (Captain) 5. Joe McCarthy
Back Row: 5. Ryan Baird 7. Caelan Doris 8. Jack Conan
Replacements:
Tom Stewart | Cian Healy | Tadhg Furlong | Tadhg Beirne | Cian Prendergast | Caolin Blade | Ciaran Frawley | Calvin Nash
