Ireland Prepares for Clash Against New Zealand in Chicago

Ireland's head coach, Andy Farrell, has announced the squad for the highly anticipated Gallagher Cup match against New Zealand at Soldier Field in Chicago on November 1, 2025. Jack Crowley has been reinstated as the starting fly-half, taking over from Sam Prendergast, following his impressive performances at the beginning of the season with Munster. Farrell emphasized Crowley’s deserving selection, noting his strong pre-season and recent form, which included a notable victory over Leinster.

Autumn Nations Series: Jack Crowley restored as Ireland's fly-half over Sam Prendergast for All Blacks Test on Andy Farrell's return

Dan Sheehan will captain the team for the second time, with a lineup that features several key players returning from injury. Notably, Stuart McCloskey will start at inside centre, while Caelan Doris, who has been recovering from a shoulder injury, will be available from the bench. The back three includes Jamie Osborne, Tommy O’Brien, and James Lowe, with Jamison Gibson-Park partnering Crowley in the half-backs.

Sheehan captains Ireland as McCloskey and Baird start

The starting XV consists of:

Autumn Nations Series: Jack Crowley restored as Ireland's fly-half over Sam Prendergast for All Blacks Test on Andy Farrell's return

• Forwards: Andrew Porter, Dan Sheehan (captain), Tadhg Furlong, James Ryan, Tadhg Beirne, Ryan Baird, Josh van der Flier, and Jack Conan.

Sheehan captains Ireland as McCloskey and Baird start

• Backs: Jamison Gibson-Park, Jack Crowley, Stuart McCloskey, Garry Ringrose, James Lowe, Tommy O’Brien, and Jamie Osborne.

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The bench includes Ronan Kelleher, Paddy McCarthy (set for his Test debut), Finlay Bealham, Iain Henderson, Caelan Doris, Craig Casey, Sam Prendergast, and Bundee Aki.

Autumn Nations Series: Jack Crowley restored as Ireland's fly-half over Sam Prendergast for All Blacks Test on Andy Farrell's return

This match marks a rematch against New Zealand, nine years after Ireland's historic victory over the All Blacks in Chicago in 2016. Farrell expressed excitement about returning to the venue, highlighting the strong support from the local Irish community and the significance of the match. He stated, "The clashes with New Zealand over the years have been fantastic occasions and we’re expecting more of the same on Saturday."

Farrell Names Ireland Team To Face New Zealand In Chicago

Despite the optimism surrounding the squad, some critics have raised concerns about the team's readiness, particularly regarding the fitness of players like Bundee Aki and Robbie Henshaw, who have been omitted from the matchday 23. Aki's lack of recent game time has led to questions about his preparedness against a formidable New Zealand side.

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In his remarks, Farrell noted the importance of the match and the excitement within the squad, particularly for debutant Paddy McCarthy. He stated, "Paddy has made a great start to the season and his selection is testament to his impressive form. We wish him well and will all do our utmost to make it a special weekend for him and his family."

Farrell Names Ireland Team To Face New Zealand In Chicago

• “It is a real privilege to be back here in Chicago ahead of a huge game against New Zealand.” — Andy Farrell, Head Coach

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• “He deserves it,” — Andy Farrell on Jack Crowley’s selection

'He deserves it' - Farrell backs Crowley at out-half for Ireland

The match is set to kick off at 3:10 PM local time (8:10 PM Irish time) and will be broadcast live on Virgin Media One and TNT Sports. Following this fixture, Ireland will continue its autumn series with matches against Japan, Australia, and South Africa, making this a crucial period for the team as they prepare for future challenges.

Farrell Names Ireland Team To Face New Zealand In Chicago