Ireland rugby supporters are already looking ahead to Australia, and the early shape of Andy Farrell’s likely World Cup side is starting to come into focus. With the latest international window offering fresh evidence, the biggest talking points now centre on who owns the No. 10 shirt, whether experience still wins out in the tight five, and which rising players can force their way into the matchday 23.
This is still a projection rather than a settled pecking order, but the signs are strong enough to sketch a realistic first-choice Ireland team. For fans following ireland sports news and rugby ireland closely, the intrigue lies in the blend of trusted leaders and emerging talent.
Ireland Rugby likely starters for the 2027 World Cup
Back three looks close to settled
If fit, Hugo Keenan and Mack Hansen still appear central to Ireland’s plans. Keenan remains one of the most reliable all-round back-three players in irish sports, while Hansen brings the creativity and edge that can change a tight Test.
The other wing is less certain, but Robert Baloucoune has done enough to push to the front. His pace, finishing power and ability to break open a defensive line give Ireland a different profile out wide.
- 15: Hugo Keenan
- 14: Robert Baloucoune
- 11: Mack Hansen
Centres built on form and trust
Stuart McCloskey’s revival has been one of the more compelling Ireland stories of this cycle. Once viewed as a squad option, he now looks like a genuine front-runner at inside centre. Garry Ringrose, meanwhile, remains the dependable organiser and defensive leader outside him.
- 13: Garry Ringrose
- 12: Stuart McCloskey
The biggest call in Ireland rugby is at fly-half
Prendergast v Crowley could define the campaign
The most fascinating debate in ireland rugby fixtures and selection talk is at No. 10. Sam Prendergast has re-entered the conversation in a serious way after a strong finish to the season and encouraging international displays. Jack Crowley remains a major contender, but injuries and fluctuating momentum have reopened the race.
If Farrell values control, size and long-range distribution, Prendergast may edge it. If he wants proven temperament in high-pressure moments, Crowley is still right there. As things stand, Prendergast just about gets the nod.
- 10: Sam Prendergast
- 9: Jamison Gibson-Park
Pack still anchored by proven names
The front row continues to pick itself when everyone is available: Andrew Porter, Dan Sheehan and Tadhg Furlong. The concern, of course, is Furlong’s durability. If he stays healthy, his experience could still be invaluable at the biggest tournament of all.
In the second row, Joe McCarthy’s recent form makes him very hard to leave out. Tadhg Beirne’s versatility adds huge value, and shifting him into the engine room allows Ireland to keep their best operators on the field.
- 1: Andrew Porter
- 2: Dan Sheehan
- 3: Tadhg Furlong
- 4: Joe McCarthy
- 5: Tadhg Beirne
- 6: Jack Conan
- 7: Josh van der Flier
- 8: Caelan Doris
Bench options and what to watch next
The likely bench has a strong look to it, with Rónan Kelleher, Paddy McCarthy, Thomas Clarkson, James Ryan, Cian Prendergast, Craig Casey, Jack Crowley and Jamie Osborne all offering balance. Osborne’s versatility could be especially important in a World Cup knockout match.
There is still plenty of movement to come. Injuries, autumn form, ireland rugby results and provincial performances will all reshape this conversation. But right now, the outline is clear: ireland rugby still has a strong core, and the route to Australia will be defined by a handful of high-stakes calls rather than a complete rebuild.
The next thing to watch is simple: who finishes the coming season strongest. That will matter more than reputation when Farrell names the side he trusts on the biggest stage.
Article/Image Courtesy: Balls.ie
