Injury Concerns for Ireland as Doris and Kelleher Face Doubts Ahead of Wales Clash
Ireland faces injury concerns as captain Caelan Doris and hooker Ronan Kelleher may miss the crucial Six Nations game against Wales.
Injury Concerns Mount for Ireland
Ireland's preparations for their upcoming Six Nations clash against Wales have been marred by injury concerns. Captain Caelan Doris, who has been a cornerstone of the Irish squad, is now a doubt due to a knee injury. Hooker Ronan Kelleher is also managing a neck issue, adding to the team's woes.
Key Players Sidelined
Doris has been a consistent performer for Ireland, featuring in the last 42 Test matches since the 2021 Six Nations. His absence would be a significant blow to the team's chances. Kelleher, known for his robust performances, is another critical player whose potential unavailability could impact Ireland's strategy.
Additional Squad Changes
Ulster's Iain Henderson and Cormac Izuchukwu are unavailable due to hamstring and ankle injuries, respectively. Meanwhile, Ulster team-mates Stuart McCloskey, Jacob Stockdale, and Nick Timoney have been called up to bolster the squad. Munster forwards Gavin Coombes and John Hodnett, along with Leinster back row Diarmuid Mangan, have also been added to the panel under interim boss Simon Easterby.
Positive Updates on Furlong and McCarthy
On a brighter note, prop Tadhg Furlong is making steady progress, and Mack Hansen and Joe McCarthy are back in training. Furlong and McCarthy missed Ireland's recent victories over England and Scotland due to calf and head injuries, respectively. Hansen was a late withdrawal before the Scotland match with a hamstring issue.
Wales' Challenges
Wales, on the other hand, are grappling with their own set of challenges. After parting ways with head coach Warren Gatland following a 14th straight Test defeat by Italy, interim boss Matt Sherratt has called up fly-halves Jarrod Evans and Gareth Anscombe, and centre Max Llewellyn.
Recent Encounters
Ireland has had the upper hand in recent encounters with Wales, including a commanding 34-10 victory in their last match at Principality Stadium in 2023. As Ireland aims for a third successive title, they hope to maintain their dominance over Wales.
Squad List
Backs (17): Bundee Aki, Caolin Blade, Jack Crowley, Ciaran Frawley, Jamison Gibson-Park, Mack Hansen, Robbie Henshaw, Hugo Keenan, James Lowe, Stuart McCloskey, Conor Murray, Calvin Nash, Jimmy O'Brien, Jamie Osborne, Sam Prendergast, Jacob Stockdale, Garry Ringrose
Forwards (23): Ryan Baird, Finlay Bealham, Tadhg Beirne, Jack Boyle, Thomas Clarkson, Jack Conan, Gavin Coombes, Caelan Doris, Tadhg Furlong, Cian Healy, Rob Herring, John Hodnett, Ronan Kelleher, Diarmuid Mangan, Gus McCarthy, Joe McCarthy, Peter O'Mahony, Andrew Porter, Cian Prendergast, James Ryan, Dan Sheehan, Nick Timoney, Josh van der Flier
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