IRELAND have received some encouraging news ahead of their clash against Wales next week.
Simon Easterby’s men don’t play in Cardiff until Saturday week as they go in search of a historic third Six Nations Championship in a row.
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Joe McCarthy and Mack Hansen could return for the clash vs Wales on Saturday week
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Tadhg Furlong hasn’t played for Ireland since last summer but could be set for a return against Wales
Tadhg Furlong and Joe McCarthy are yet to feature in this year’s championship.
Furlong hasn’t played for Ireland since last summer after a long-term calf issue.
Connacht winger Hansen was ruled out the day before Sunday’s 32-18 victory over Scotland with a hamstring issue.
McCarthy started every game of last year’s Six Nations Championship winning campaign.
Ireland, seeking to become the first side to win three successive titles outright, face trips to lowly Wales and Italy between a potentially crucial home game against France on March 8.
A statement from the IRFU read: “Tadhg Furlong continues to make good progress, as do Mack Hansen and Joe McCarthy with the Ireland management optimistic about their availability for the Wales fixture on Saturday, 22 February at the Principality Stadium (Kick-off 2.15pm).”
Ahead of next week’s clash, Warren Gatland has left his role as Wales head coach by mutual agreement.
It follows a record run of 14 successive Test match defeats.
The WRU confirmed the news with a statement on Tuesday, Abi Tierney said: “The WRU and Warren have agreed that making this change now is in the best interests of the Wales squad as it continues to compete in the 2025 Six Nations tournament.
“We are grateful to Warren for all he has done for the game in Wales. He remains our longest-serving and most decorated head coach in terms of the silverware he has won.
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“Matt Sherratt takes over at a pivotal time.
“It is a credit to him that he has not hesitated to answer Wales’s call and is also testament to the strong relationship that now exists throughout the Welsh professional game that Cardiff Rugby are fully supportive of the move.
“Matt will return to Cardiff Rugby after the Six Nations in order to concentrate his efforts on what is already a promising campaign for our capital club.
“Our intention is to have a permanent appointment in place before this summer’s two-Test tour to Japan, with all options open.”
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Author : rugby-247
Publish date : 2025-02-11 21:00:18
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