Andy Farrell has named his Ireland rugby squad for a demanding November series, with three major tests at the Aviva Stadium set to shape the next phase of the international season. The selection includes two uncapped players, a long-awaited return for Mack Hansen and several notable absences caused by injury.
Ireland rugby squad set for three major November tests
Ireland will resume the Nations Championship with Argentina, Fiji and world champions South Africa visiting Dublin. The opening match against Argentina takes place on Friday, November 6, with kick-off at 8.10pm. Fiji follow the next Saturday, before South Africa complete the series on November 21.
The fixtures represent a significant test for Farrell’s side after a mixed summer campaign. Ireland defeated Australia and Japan in July but ended the tour with a heavy 40-21 loss to New Zealand at Eden Park. The November schedule offers an immediate opportunity to respond against three different styles of opposition.
New faces and welcome return in Farrell’s selection
Ulster forwards James McNabney and Jamie Benson have earned their first Ireland call-ups. Benson joined Ulster during the summer and previously represented England at under-20 level. He is eligible to play for Ireland through ancestry.
The inclusion of both players adds fresh competition to the squad, particularly at a time when Farrell is managing a number of injuries. Their elevation also reflects the importance of strong provincial form as Ireland builds depth ahead of a busy international cycle.
Mack Hansen is another prominent name included after a lengthy absence from Test rugby. His return gives Ireland an experienced attacking option and could add greater variety to the back three during the November fixtures.
Jamison Gibson-Park has also been selected despite recent injury concerns. Dan Sheehan has been named captain in the absence of Caelan Doris, placing added responsibility on the Leinster hooker during a demanding run of games.
Who is missing from the Ireland rugby squad?
The list of unavailable players will be closely watched by supporters. Doris is expected to miss the November series after a knee infection delayed his recovery from surgery. His absence removes Ireland’s regular captain and one of the side’s most influential back-row players.
Jack Crowley remains sidelined with a vascular injury, while Jack Conan has not been selected after suffering a shoulder injury against Clermont. The back row will therefore be an area of particular interest when Farrell begins settling on his match-day combinations.
There are further concerns in the front row and pack, with Jack Boyle continuing to recover from an Achilles problem and Paddy McCarthy out with a foot injury. The absences could give emerging players an important chance to establish themselves at Test level.
Key talking points from the squad
- James McNabney and Jamie Benson are included as uncapped players.
- Mack Hansen returns after a prolonged spell away from Test rugby.
- Dan Sheehan takes the captaincy while Caelan Doris is unavailable.
- Gibson-Park has been selected despite recent fitness concerns.
- Brian Gleeson and Dan Kelly miss out despite being linked with possible call-ups.
What the November series means for Ireland
These matches will provide more than a set of results. Argentina bring physicality and strong defensive organisation, Fiji offer power and unpredictability, while South Africa will test Ireland’s ability to compete against the world champions across 80 minutes.
For Farrell, the priority will be finding balance between experienced leaders and players pushing for their first appearance. The injury list makes squad depth especially important, while the return of Hansen gives Ireland another proven threat in attack.
The opening selection decisions will also offer clues about Ireland’s wider plans. With new players entering the group and established figures working their way back from injury, every training week before the Argentina match will carry significance.
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Questions Ireland supporters will be asking
When do Ireland play Argentina?
Ireland face Argentina on Friday, November 6, with kick-off scheduled for 8.10pm at the Aviva Stadium.
Who are the uncapped players in the squad?
Ulster duo James McNabney and Jamie Benson have been included for the first time at senior international level.
Why is Caelan Doris unavailable?
Doris is expected to miss the November tests after a knee infection delayed his recovery from surgery.
Who captains Ireland in his absence?
Dan Sheehan has been named captain for the series.
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The next step for Farrell’s team
The Ireland rugby squad now enters a crucial preparation period before Argentina arrive in Dublin. Farrell must settle his combinations, manage the returning players carefully and find reliable solutions in the back row. The first team announcement will reveal how Ireland intends to begin this demanding Nations Championship series.
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