Ireland have received a significant boost ahead of their final Quilter Nations Series match of 2025. Ireland host South Africa this Saturday at the Aviva Stadium, with both Josh van der Flier and Garry Ringrose returning to full training and available for selection.
Van der Flier, World Player of the Year in 2022, and Leinster centre Ringrose both missed time through injury, but their return is perfectly timed as Andy Farrell prepares to take on the Springboks at a packed Aviva Stadium (5.40pm kick-off).
There’s more good news in the forwards, with tighthead Thomas Clarkson passing all HIA protocols following the win over Japan in week two. Clarkson is expected to train fully this week and could be named by Farrell in the match-day squad.
However, Ireland have suffered a blow in midfield as Stuart McCloskey has been ruled out with a recurrence of a groin injury. The Ulster powerhouse has been impressing for Ireland after strong provincial form, but he will play no part this weekend. McCloskey’s absence increases the likelihood that Ringrose goes straight back into the starting XV, unless Farrell opts for further experimentation in the centres.
Ireland are looking to close out the series on a high after mixed performances so far, following a first round defeat to Australia and an underwhelming second round performance despite the win over Japan in round two. The latest weekend brought around the most complete Ireland performance so far, as Farrell’s men despatched of Australia with the Wallabies struggling for form. It will be a different task altogether this Saturday, as South Africa arrive with momentum and full intention of imposing their trademark physicality.
The squad announcement comes Thursday afternoon, with competition fierce across the Ireland pack and backline, as players push to make a final impression before attention turns to the 2026 Six Nations.
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