Ireland vs Samoa: Ulster duo presented with significant opportunity ahead of impending World Cup squad announcement

Ireland Rugby: Farrell’s World Cup Squad Announcement Looms

As Ireland head coach Andy Farrell prepares to unveil his World Cup squad, it marks the culmination of a ten-week training period and intense scrutiny. This final warm-up game against Samoa could prove decisive for several players hoping to secure their place on the plane to France.

The Ulstermen in Focus

A spotlight falls on the Ulster contingent as Iain Henderson leads the team once again before their tournament opener against Romania. While Henderson is likely to make the final cut, his club-mates Stuart McCloskey and Tom Stewart have an excellent opportunity to impress and earn their spots.

This will be Stewart’s first start after making a strong debut off the bench in the victory over Italy. With competition from Dan Sheehan, Ronan Kelleher, and Rob Herring for the hooker position, Saturday’s match presents a crucial chance for him to shine in a World Cup-like environment against Samoa.

McCloskey has been a regular feature in recent Ireland squads, appearing in both November Tests and Six Nations matches during their Grand Slam triumph. Although Andy Farrell hasn’t confirmed his preferred forward-to-back ratio yet, McCloskey’s second consecutive start suggests that he is likely part of his plans. However, with other talented centers like Garry Ringrose, Robbie Henshaw, Bundee Aki available alongside versatile Jimmy O’Brien, McCloskey must deliver an exceptional performance alongside Henshaw in Bayonne.

Jacob Stockdale Left Out Again

While Stewart and McCloskey embrace their opportunity at Stade Jean-Dauger, Jacob Stockdale’s chances to impress have dwindled. Despite starting in the win over Italy, his exclusion from last week’s victory against England raises doubts about his inclusion in the final squad. The omission from the matchday 23 for Samoa further hints that Stockdale might miss out on a place among the chosen 33.

Andy Farrell maintains that he considers “everyone” during selection, yet it seems unlikely that both Stockdale and Connacht back rower Cian Prendergast, as well as Leinster fly-half Ciaran Frawley, will make the cut. However, Jeremy Loughman has been named among the replacements for Saturday’s game against Samoa despite being at risk of missing out.