Ireland's interim head coach, Simon Easterby, has announced a 36-man squad for the 2025 Guinness Men's Six Nations Championship, blending seasoned internationals with emerging talent.
Andy Farrell, Ireland's head coach, is currently on a sabbatical as he prepares to lead the British & Irish Lions on their highly anticipated 2025 tour of Australia.
Key Inclusions
- Dan Sheehan The dynamic hooker returns to the squad after recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained six months ago.
- James Lowe The prolific winger is set to rejoin the team in Portugal, pending recovery from a calf injury.
- Jack Boyle The Leinster prop is the sole uncapped player in the squad, having impressed as a Development Player during the Autumn Nations Series.
Notable Selections
- Caelan Doris The versatile back-rower has been named captain, reflecting his leadership qualities and consistent performances.
- Development Players Hugh Cooney (Leinster), James McNabney (Ulster), Ben Murphy, and Cathal Forde (both Connacht) have been included to gain experience at the international level.
Easterby emphasized the importance of a strong start, stating
The Guinness Six Nations is one of the most keenly-contested competitions in the global calendar... you have to hit the ground running and there’s no room for building or easing your way into competition.
Ireland will commence their campaign against England at home on February 1st, aiming for a strong performance under Easterby's leadership.
Squad Overview
Forwards
Ryan BAIRD
Finlay BEALHAM
Tadhg BEIRNE
Jack BOYLE
Thomas CLARKSON
Jack CONAN
Caelan DORIS (captain)
Tadhg FURLONG
Cian HEALY
Iain HENDERSON
Rob HERRING
Cormac IZUCHUKWU
Rónan KELLEHER
Gus MCCARTHY
Joe MCCARTHY
Peter O’MAHONY
Andrew PORTER
Cian PRENDERGAST
James RYAN
Dan SHEEHAN
Josh van der FLIER
*Backs:*
Bundee AKI
Caolin BLADE
Jack CROWLEY
Ciaran FRAWLEY
Jamison GIBSON-PARK
Mack HANSEN
Robbie HENSHAW
Hugo KEENAN
James LOWE
Conor MURRAY
Calvin NASH
Jimmy O’BRIEN
Jamie OSBORNE
Sam PRENDERGAST
Garry RINGROSE
Development Players
Hugh COONEY
Cathal FORDE
James MCNABNEY
Ben MURPHY
