Ireland's interim head coach, Paul O'Connell, has announced significant changes to the lineup for the upcoming Test against Portugal in Lisbon, with three players set to make their international debuts. Shayne Bolton and Alex Kendellen will start the game, while Hugh Gavin is poised to earn his first cap off the bench.

New Faces in the Lineup

• Shayne Bolton, a wing from Connacht, steps in for the injured Jacob Stockdale, who suffered a shoulder injury during the 34-5 victory over Georgia last week.
• Alex Kendellen, a back row from Munster, replaces Nick Timoney at open-side flanker.
• Hugh Gavin, a centre from Connacht, is expected to make his debut as a substitute.

Strategic Shifts

Jack Crowley has been named as the starting fly-half, taking over from Sam Prendergast, who scored 14 points against Georgia but was left out of the 23-man squad for this match. O'Connell has retained the same front row of Jack Boyle, Gus McCarthy, and Tom Clarkson, while Tom Ahern from Munster will make his first start in the second row alongside Darragh Murray.

Coach's Perspective

"I have been really pleased with the attitude of the players over the last number of weeks," said O'Connell. "The dedication and diligence of the squad in testing conditions over in Tbilisi demonstrated the players' willingness to embrace challenges and hopefully that bodes well again this weekend."

Full Ireland Lineup

• Starting XV: J O'Brien; T O'Brien, J Osborne, S McCloskey, S Bolton; J Crowley, C Casey (capt); J Boyle, G McCarthy, T Clarkson; T Ahern, D Murray; R Baird, A Kendellen, C Prendergast.
• Replacements: T Stewart, M Milne, T O'Toole, C Izuchukwu, M Deegan, B Murphy, C Frawley, H Gavin.

This match marks a pivotal moment for Ireland as they integrate new talent and adjust their strategies under the guidance of Paul O'Connell. The team's performance in Lisbon will be a crucial indicator of their readiness for future challenges in the Rugby Union arena.