Andy Farrell is back at the helm following his sabbatical with the Lions. Photo: Sportsfile
Rúaidhrí O’Connor, Cian Tracey, Will Slattery, David Kelly and Michael Sadlier
Today at 18:30
Rúaidhrí O’Connor: There’s a huge amount of work to do to have this team at the level where they can compete for honours in Australia in two years’ time. They have become easier to defend, while the age profile in certain areas is worrying. Ireland’s top seeding for the draw is secure, so now is the time to change up the side.
Cian Tracey: Andy Farrell’s return to the helm couldn’t be coming at a better time as Ireland look to get back to their peak, which we haven’t seen them at in well over a year. Without getting too obsessed with the World Cup cycle, it’s important that younger players are given a chance to step up in meaningful games – not just against Japan in a few weeks.