Ireland rugby returns to Cork next month with a new-look Ireland XV squad preparing for a significant test against Fiji ‘A’ at Virgin Media Park. The fixture will give players from all four provinces a valuable chance to press their claims for senior international selection.
The 28-player group, coached by Mark Sexton and captained by Leinster hooker Gus McCarthy, will face Fiji ‘A’ on Friday, 20 November 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 7.45pm. The match is the first of three fixtures planned for the Ireland XV during the 2026/27 season.
Ireland XV squad brings provincial experience to Cork
The squad includes a strong blend of established provincial players and ambitious talent. Munster provide a sizeable contingent, while Leinster, Connacht and Ulster are also well represented across the forwards and backs.
McCarthy’s appointment as captain adds leadership to a group that will assemble in Cork on Monday, 16 November. The week-long preparation period will be important as Sexton works to build cohesion ahead of a demanding contest against a talented Fiji side.
Forwards
- Tom Ahern – Munster
- Jack Aungier – Munster
- Paul Boyle – Connacht
- Kieran Brookes – Munster
- Will Connors – Connacht
- Eoin de Buitléar – Connacht
- Edwin Edogbo – Munster
- Sean Edogbo – Munster
- Brian Gleeson – Munster
- Cormac Izuchukwu – Ulster
- Gus McCarthy – Leinster, captain
- David McCann – Ulster
- Michael Milne – Munster
- Conor O’Tighearnaigh – Leinster
- Scott Penny – Leinster
- Alex Usanov – Leinster
Backs
- Joey Carbery – Leinster
- Matthew Devine – Ulster
- Cathal Forde – Connacht
- Fintan Gunne – Leinster
- James Hume – Ulster
- Dan Kelly – Munster
- Shay McCarthy – Munster
- Ethan McIlroy – Ulster
- Jack Murphy – Ulster
- Daniel Ryan – Connacht
- Finn Treacy – Connacht
- Harry West – Connacht
Fiji ‘A’ test offers route into Ireland senior squad
For many players, the Cork fixture will be more than a standalone Ireland sports event. It represents an opportunity to demonstrate form, physicality and decision-making in an international environment while competing for future involvement with the senior men’s team.
Sexton said the squad contained an ambitious group drawn from across the provinces and described the fixture as a meaningful challenge. He also highlighted the influence of the Cork and Munster support, pointing to the atmosphere expected under the lights at Virgin Media Park.
The Fiji ‘A’ challenge should provide a useful examination of Ireland’s defensive organisation, breakdown work and ability to manage a fast, powerful attacking side. The game is likely to reward teams that can maintain discipline and build pressure through multiple phases.
Double-header adds to Cork rugby occasion
The Ireland XV match will form part of a double-header at Virgin Media Park. Earlier that evening, the Ireland Under-20s will meet Scotland Under-20s in a 5pm kick-off, creating a full evening of rugby for supporters.
Broadcast information for both fixtures is expected to be confirmed later. Tickets for the double-header are already on sale through Ticketmaster.ie, giving supporters the chance to see emerging Irish talent at both international levels.
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What to watch when Ireland XV face Fiji ‘A’
- Leadership: McCarthy will be central to setting standards at the set piece and around the field.
- Provincial balance: The squad’s four-province representation should create strong competition for places.
- Pathway opportunities: Several players will see the match as a chance to move closer to the senior Ireland squad.
- Home support: A strong Cork crowd could add intensity to the Friday night contest.
With the Ireland XV programme returning for its first fixture of the new season, the focus will quickly turn to selection, combinations and which players can make the biggest impression. The next major step is the assembly in Cork on 16 November, followed by the double-header against Fiji ‘A’ and Scotland Under-20s four days later.
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