Three uncapped Connacht players – Billy Bohan, Sam Illo, and Sean Jansen – have been named in Ireland's squad for the upcoming Nations Championship fixtures next month. However, the squad will be without key fly-half Jack Crowley, who has been ruled out due to a blood vessel issue, as confirmed by Munster boss Clayton McMillan.
Crowley, 26, had re-established himself as head coach Andy Farrell's preferred out-half during the recent Six Nations campaign, making his absence a significant blow. His unavailability means that Sam Prendergast, Harry Byrne, and Ciaran Frawley will now compete for the starting fly-half position. Prendergast, who started the first two Six Nations matches, will likely face strong competition from Leinster team-mate Byrne, who was Leinster's first-choice fly-half during their Investec Champions Cup final run.
The 36-man squad, captained by Caelan Doris, is set to travel to Sydney on Monday. Their Nations Championship schedule includes a clash with Australia in Sydney on 4th July, followed by a match against Japan in Newcastle on 11th July, and concluding with a challenging encounter against New Zealand in Auckland on 18th July. Farrell, who recently extended his contract until 2031, expressed his desire for the team to "build on our positive performances" from the Six Nations, which saw Ireland secure a fourth Triple Crown in five years.
Beyond Crowley, several other notable players are absent due to injury, including Leinster props Andrew Porter, Jack Boyle, and Paddy McCarthy, as well as experienced campaigner Ryan Baird. Connacht wing Mack Hansen also remains sidelined with a foot injury. Furthermore, James Lowe will not feature after announcing his departure from Irish rugby last week, having rejected a new deal with his club.
The inclusion of Bohan, Illo, and Jansen underscores Farrell's intent to broaden the squad's depth and provide opportunities for emerging talent. Bohan, a loose-head prop, was an unused member of this year's Six Nations squad, while Illo adds to the tight-head options. Number eight Sean Jansen, a New Zealand-born player, is rewarded for a strong season with Connacht, which saw him score 10 URC tries and contribute to their Champions Cup qualification.
Farrell emphasised the importance of hitting the ground running in the new tournament and highlighted the invaluable experience of playing down under. He noted the expectation of playing in front of largely partisan home crowds while also acknowledging the significant Irish support anticipated.
Source: UKPulse Media Research