Ireland return to Soldier Field on November 1st (8.10pm Irish time) for a rematch of that famous 2016 win over the All Blacks, and Andy Farrell has named a squad packed with world-class experience and new blood ready to make their mark.
With that in mind, here’s the Ireland XV we’d like to see Farrell roll out for the Chicago showdown.
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Front Row
1. Andrew Porter
15 March 2025; Andrew Porter of Ireland during the Guinness Six Nations Rugby Championship match between Italy and Ireland at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, Italy. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile
A nailed-on starter. Porter’s position isn’t in doubt. His power, durability and set-piece dominance make him indispensable.
2. Dan Sheehan
If Caelan Doris isn’t fit to lead, Sheehan should captain. Arguably the best hooker in the world, combining physicality with superb footballing ability.
3. Finlay Bealham
22 February 2025; Finlay Bealham of Ireland during the Guinness Six Nations Rugby Championship match between Wales and Ireland at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales. Photo by Ben McShane/Sportsfile
Has come on leaps and bounds over the last two seasons and earned his Lions call-up. A technically excellent scrummager who adds bite and mobility.
Second Row
4. Tadhg Beirne
15 March 2025; Tadhg Beirne of Ireland during the Guinness Six Nations Rugby Championship match between Italy and Ireland at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, Italy. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile
Fresh off being named Player of the Series on the Lions tour, Beirne remains one of Ireland’s most complete forwards. Brings leadership, breakdown brilliance and big-game temperament.
5. Ryan Baird
Hugely athletic and improving fast. His energy in open play and lineout presence give Ireland a dynamic edge alongside Beirne.
Back Row
6. Jack Conan
A proven British & Irish Lion and arguably too good to keep on the bench. Physical, composed and always delivers when it matters.
7. Josh van der Flier
15 March 2025; Josh van der Flier of Ireland after the Guinness Six Nations Rugby Championship match between Italy and Ireland at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, Italy. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile
The former World Player of the Year still sets the standard for intensity and accuracy. Tireless and ultra-consistent.
8. Caelan Doris (C)
If fit, Doris should lead. A complete modern No.8 with balance, skill and leadership in abundance.
Half-Backs
9. Jamison Gibson-Park
14 October 2023; Jamison Gibson-Park of Ireland during the 2023 Rugby World Cup quarter-final match between Ireland and New Zealand at the Stade de France in Paris, France. Photo by Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile
Ireland’s spark plug. His tempo and quick ball are key to everything Ireland do in attack.
10. Sam Prendergast
Depending on how the Leinster v Munster clash goes, this could be the right time to give Prendergast the reins. Calm, creative and brave – exactly what Ireland will need in Chicago.
Centres
12. Bundee Aki
15 March 2025; Bundee Aki of Ireland after the Guinness Six Nations Rugby Championship match between Italy and Ireland at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, Italy. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile
Still one of Ireland’s most reliable big-game players. Dominant in contact and hugely influential on both sides of the ball.
Recommended
13. Garry Ringrose
One of the best defensive centres in world rugby, and his combination with Aki remains the heartbeat of Ireland’s midfield.
Back Three
11. James Lowe
A constant attacking threat who always beats the first defender and offers a vital left-foot kicking outlet.
14. Tommy O’Brien
12 July 2025; Tommy O’Brien of Ireland during the International Rugby Test match between Portugal and Ireland at Estádio Nacional do Jamor in Lisbon, Portugal. Photo by David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile
Explosive and lightning quick. Fresh off his 50th Leinster cap, he’s earned a chance to test himself at the highest level.
15. Mack Hansen
Set to play full-back for Connacht this weekend, and that could be the start of something. Hansen’s vision, creativity and counter-attacking instincts make him a thrilling option at 15.
Replacements
16. Jack Boyle
A young, powerful loosehead with a massive future. The kind of fresh impact option Ireland could use late in games.
17. Rónan Kelleher
Would start for nearly any other international side. Hugely unlucky to be behind Sheehan, but his dynamism makes him the perfect finisher.
18. Tadhg Furlong
Still an elite tighthead, even if his recent form has dipped slightly. Brings leadership and experience off the bench.
19. James Ryan
Still one of Ireland’s great lineout generals. Brings leadership and aggression when introduced.
20. Cian Prendergast
Prendergast has been quietly building a case for more minutes at international level. His work rate and versatility, equally comfortable at blindside or No.8, starting for Connacht at openside this weekend will give Farrell valuable balance in the back row.
21. Craig Casey
Carrying a hamstring issue, but hopefully fit in time. Brings tempo and bite as the natural successor to JGP.
22. Jack Crowley
In red-hot form for Munster and pushing hard for the 10 jersey. A composed, defensively sound and confident option to steer the game late on.
23. Jamie Osborne
Called up to the Lions this summer after a superb breakthrough year. Offers versatility, physicality and an all-round skill set perfect for Test level.
SEE ALSO: 15 Rugby Players Who Played For Both Leinster And Munster