The countdown begins – will Robert Baloucoune be back in business for Ireland's showdown with Japan on Saturday? The winger's availability hangs in the balance as the team edges closer to the must-win fixture. Initially touted to start against Australia in Sydney, a hamstring injury put paid to those plans, but Andy Farrell's men are ready to kick on from their hard-fought 33-31 victory over the Wallabies.
That narrow win was a masterclass in resilience from the Boys in Green, who demonstrated they've got what it takes against top-class opposition. With their sights now set firmly on Japan, Ireland knows this one's a must-win – and they'll be looking to add another notch to their unbeaten run, which currently stands at six games.
But there's a subplot developing in Newcastle – Munster prop Jeremy Loughman is ruled out due to concussion protocols. The IRFU remains tight-lipped about new injury concerns within the squad, but the absence of Baloucoune and now Loughman adds an element of uncertainty for head coach Farrell as he finalises his team selection.
Japan, under the guidance of former England coach Eddie Jones, has found its footing in the Nations Championship – they've won back-to-back matches, including a convincing victory over Italy in Tokyo. With their confidence soaring and Ireland's momentum at stake, this one's set to be an absolute cracker.
The outcome of Baloucoune's fitness assessment will be crucial for Farrell as he weighs up his options. A return from injury would inject pace and experience into the back line against a Japanese side that knows how to mix it up – and keep an opponent guessing.