Both Gus McCarthy and Cormac Izuchukwu have been handed starts by Andy Farrell for the Autumn Nations Series game against Fiji this Saturday.
McCarthy, a hooker, and Izuchukwu, a backrower, are two of seven changes made by Farrell this weekend. Jamie Osborne, Bundee Aki, Sam Prendergast, Jacob Stockdale, and Craig Casey also get the nod.
Osborne has been selected in a back three alongside Mack Hansen and Stockdale, the wingers. Robbie Henshaw and Bundee Aki start in midfield. Leinster starlet Prendergast starts this week after his impressive cameo against Argentina. Casey is the scrum-half.
Andrew Porter, McCarthy, and Finlay Bealham take up matters in the front row. Joe McCarthy and Tadhg Beirne provide engine room cover. Izuchukwu, Josh van der Flier, and Ireland's captain, Caelan Doris, complete the side.
On the bench, Rónan Kelleher, Tom O’Toole, Thomas Clarkson, Ian Henderson, and Cian Prendergast provide the forward options for Farrell, while Conor Murray, Ciaran Frawley, and Stuart McCloskey are the backups.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s game, Andy Farrell said: “There were signs of improvement last weekend, and this week has been about building and embracing the challenge of a talented Flying Fijian side who will be coming over to Dublin full of confidence after their recent displays.
What a moment for Gus and Izzy! 💚#TeamOfUs pic.twitter.com/KwpwEpLYD4
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) November 21, 2024
“On Saturday, we welcome two more debutants, and I’m delighted for Cormac and Gus, who have impressed with their work rate and application over recent weeks and months. They have both performed strongly for their provinces, brought that good form into the recent Emerging Ireland Tour, and are now being rewarded for their efforts. We wish them well as they take these exciting next steps in their careers.”
Saturday’s match is live on Virgin Media One (Republic of Ireland) and TNT Sports (UK), with live radio commentary available on RTÉ Radio 1.
Ireland: Jamie Osborne; Mack Hansen, Robbie Henshaw, Bundee Aki, Jacob Stockdale; Sam Prendergast, Craig Casey; Andrew Porter, Gus McCarthy, Finlay Bealham; Joe McCarthy, Tadhg Beirne; Cormac Izuchukwu, Josh van der Flier, Caelan Doris (captain).
Replacements: Ronan Kelleher, Tom O'Toole, Thomas Clarkson, Iain Henderson, Cian Prendergast, Conor Murray, Ciarán Frawley, Stuart McCloskey.
Fiji: Vuate Karawalevu; Jiuta Wainiqolo, Waisea Nayacalevu (co-captain), Josua Tuisova, Ponipate Loganimasi; Caleb Muntz, Frank Lomani; Eroni Mawi, Tevita Ikanivere (co-captain), Luke Tagi; Mesake Vocevoce, Temo Mayanavanua; Ratu Meli Derenalagi, Kitione Salawa, Elia Canakaivata.
Replacements: Sam Matavesi, Haereiti Hetet, Samu Tawake, Satareki Turagacoke, Albert Tuisue, Peni Matawalu, Vilmoni Botitu, Sireli Maqala.
