New Faces Set for Ireland’s Georgia Test
Ireland names O’Brien and Murray for Georgia test debuts as Tommy O’Brien and Darragh Murray get ready to earn their first caps this Saturday in Tbilisi. Craig Casey will also have a memorable day as he captains Ireland for the first time. Interim head coach Paul O’Connell has paired Casey with Sam Prendergast at half-back, while Stuart McCloskey and Jamie Osborne will handle the midfield duties.
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Back Three and Stockdale’s Chase
Tommy O’Brien will line up on the wing, joined by his Leinster teammate Jimmy O’Brien and the experienced Jacob Stockdale, who will make his 39th appearance for Ireland. Stockdale is just one try away from reaching the milestone of 100 points for Ireland, aiming to become the first player since Jack Crowley to do so.
Murray Joins the Second Row
Darragh Murray will debut in the second row, teaming up with Cormac Izuchukwu. In the front row, Jack Boyle, Gus McCarthy, and Thomas Clarkson will start, while Ryan Baird, Nick Timoney, and Gavin Coombes will complete the back row to round off the starting pack.
Bench Ready for Debut Opportunities
Four more players could earn their first caps from the bench, with Munster’s Michael Milne and Tom Ahern, along with Connacht’s Jack Aungier and Ben Murphy, waiting for their chance to step onto the international stage. They will be supported by Tom Stewart, Cian Prendergast, and Calvin Nash among the replacements.
Coach O’Connell’s Thoughts on the Squad
Looking ahead to the clash at Mikheil Meskhi Stadium, O’Connell praised the team’s preparation for this two-game summer tour, noting how much of an exciting opportunity it is for the players involved. He congratulated Craig Casey for his first match as captain, highlighting how well he has adapted to the role and how eager he is to lead Ireland confidently.
O’Connell also shared his excitement for the six players who may make their international debuts, encouraging them to enjoy the occasion with their teammates and families. He acknowledged the squad may be light on caps in some areas but felt there is a healthy mix of youthful energy and valuable experience to guide them through.
Two-Test Summer Tour Begins
Saturday’s fixture marks the beginning of Ireland’s summer Tests, with their next match taking place in Lisbon against Portugal a week later.
Ireland Starting XV: Jimmy O’Brien; Tommy O’Brien, Jamie Osborne, Stuart McCloskey, Jacob Stockdale; Sam Prendergast, Craig Casey (capt); Jack Boyle, Gus McCarthy, Thomas Clarkson; Cormac Izuchukwu, Darragh Murray; Ryan Baird, Nick Timoney, Gavin Coombes. Replacements: Tom Stewart, Michael Milne, Jack Aungier, Tom Ahern, Cian Prendergast, Ben Murphy, Jack Crowley, Calvin Nash.
