Get ready for an epic rugby showdown as Ireland takes on the mighty South Africa, the reigning world champions, in a sold-out spectacle at the Aviva Stadium!
The Battle for Dublin
Andy Farrell, Ireland's head coach, has unveiled his match-day squad, proudly sponsored by Vodafone, for this highly anticipated clash. Captain Caelan Doris will lead the team from the back row, as the Springboks arrive in Dublin for the final Test of 2025.
But here's where it gets interesting: Farrell has made some strategic changes to his lineup. Mack Hansen continues his role at full-back, flanked by Tommy O'Brien and James Lowe on the wings. The real intrigue lies in the new center pairing, with Bundee Aki partnering the returning Garry Ringrose. Sam Prendergast and Jamison Gibson-Park retain their positions in the half-backs.
In the pack, Andrew Porter, Dan Sheehan, and Tadhg Furlong form a formidable front row, with James Ryan and Tadhg Beirne providing the engine room power. Ryan Baird, Josh van der Flier, and captain Doris complete the starting back row, a trio of experienced campaigners.
Farrell has also assembled a strong bench, with Rónan Kelleher, Paddy McCarthy, Finlay Bealham, Cian Prendergast, and Jack Conan ready to make an impact. Craig Casey, Jack Crowley, and Tom Farrell provide additional firepower for the backline.
Speaking ahead of the match, Andy Farrell emphasized the challenge ahead: "South Africa are the best in the world, and we know we must be at our absolute best. Every top team tests you, and we aim to build on our momentum from last weekend."
The players are energized by the home support, as Farrell notes: "The squad is excited to represent Ireland with pride in our last home game of 2025."
This match promises to be a thrilling encounter, and you can catch all the action live on RTÉ2, RTÉ Radio 1, and TNT Sports.
Ireland's Starting XV (v South Africa):
- Mack Hansen (Corinthians/Connacht)
- Tommy O'Brien (Blackrock College/Leinster)
- Garry Ringrose (UCD/Leinster)
- Bundee Aki (Galwegians/Connacht)
- James Lowe (Leinster)
- Sam Prendergast (Lansdowne/Leinster)
Jamison Gibson-Park (Leinster)
Andrew Porter (UCD/Leinster)
Dan Sheehan (Lansdowne/Leinster)
Tadhg Furlong (Clontarf/Leinster)
James Ryan (UCD/Leinster)
Tadhg Beirne (Lansdowne/Munster)
Ryan Baird (Dublin University/Leinster)
Josh van der Flier (UCD/Leinster)
Caelan Doris (St Mary's College/Leinster) (captain)
Replacements:
- Rónan Kelleher (Lansdowne/Leinster)
- Paddy McCarthy (Dublin University/Leinster)
- Finlay Bealham (Corinthians/Connacht)
- Cian Prendergast (UCD/Connacht)
- Jack Conan (Old Belvedere/Leinster)
- Craig Casey (Shannon/Munster)
- Jack Crowley (Cork Constitution/Munster)
- Tom Farrell (Lansdowne/Munster)
Will Ireland's strategic lineup choices pay off against the formidable Springboks? Share your predictions and thoughts in the comments! This match is sure to spark some passionate discussions among rugby enthusiasts.
