Ireland Players Acknowledge Pain from World Cup Exit
- Ireland faces New Zealand on November 8, 2024, in Dublin, following a World Cup exit last year.
- Injury concerns leave Ireland's squad without key players, leading to lineup changes.
- Both teams are seeking to improve their performances as they come together in this high-stakes match.
Ireland is set to face New Zealand in the Autumn Nations Series on Friday, November 8, 2024, at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. This match is particularly significant as it comes after Ireland's quarter-final elimination from the Rugby World Cup at the hands of the All Blacks last year. Despite the lingering disappointment, both players and head coach Andy Farrell have emphasized that seeking revenge is not their focus for this encounter. The team aims to correct their past mistakes during this high-stakes match. Injuries have affected Ireland's squad, leaving them without key players like Tadhg Furlong and Dan Sheehan. Consequently, Finlay Bealham will start in the tighthead position while experienced hooker Ronan Kelleher returns to action after a significant ankle injury. Farrell expressed confidence in captain Caelan Doris, who has shown strong leadership since taking over the captaincy. On the other side, New Zealand comes into this match following a narrow victory against England. The All Blacks are missing experienced players like Beauden Barrett and Codie Taylor, creating openings for others in the squad. Head coach Scott Robertson acknowledged that they must perform better than their recent game to challenge the world's top-ranked team effectively. This match not only represents an opportunity for Ireland to redeem themselves post-World Cup but also signifies a contest between two elite teams aiming to prove their prowess in international rugby.