Ireland name side for Japan Test

Ireland head coach Andy Farrell has named his match-day 23 for the Quilter Nations Series clash against Japan at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

Captain Caelan Doris returns to lead the team from number eight, while Munster centre Tom Farrell is set to make his Test debut.

Jamie Osborne receives the nod at full-back, with Tommy O’Brien and Jacob Stockdale on the wings. Tom Farrell starts at 13 alongside Robbie Henshaw in midfield.

Craig Casey pairs with Jack Crowley at half-back. In the pack, Andrew Porter, Rónan Kelleher and Thomas Clarkson form the front row.

The engine-room features James Ryan and Tadhg Beirne, with the back row completed by Ryan Baird, Nick Timoney and captain Doris.

Among the replacements are forwards Gus McCarthy, Paddy McCarthy, Finlay Bealham, Cian Prendergast and Jack Conan, while Caolin Blade, Sam Prendergast and Jimmy O’Brien bolster the back-line.

Farrrell emphasised that this fixture offers both a test and a development opportunity for aspiring players aiming for senior honours.

“We’ve been pleased with the application and diligence of the squad this week,” said Farrell.

“Japan will look to ask questions and play positively. We must be sharp, execute our game-plan and respond with intensity and discipline.”

Ireland: 15 Jamie Osborne, 14 Tommy O’Brien, 13 Tom Farrell, 12 Robbie Henshaw, 11 Jacob Stockdale, 10 Jack Crowley, 9 Craig Casey, 8 Caelan Doris (c), 7 Nick Timoney, 6 Ryan Baird, 5 Tadhg Beirne, 4 James Ryan, 3 Thomas Clarkson, 2. Ronan Kelleher, 1. Andrew Porter

Reserves: 16 Gus McCarthy, Paddy McCarthy, 18 Finlay Bealham, 19 Cian Prendergast, 20 Jack Conan, 21 Caolin Blade, 22 Sam Prendergast, 23 Jimmy O’Brien