Ireland’s rugby fans are in for a thrilling yet bittersweet autumn, as the national team gears up for a series of high-stakes matches—but with a notable absence of two key Lions players. Here’s the kicker: Hugo Keenan and Joe McCarthy, both instrumental in the Lions’ recent success, won’t be joining the squad due to injuries. And this is the part most people miss: their absence could significantly reshape Ireland’s strategy against rugby powerhouses like the All Blacks and Springboks. But let’s dive deeper.
Caelan Doris, the No.8 who missed the Lions series due to a shoulder injury, is making a triumphant return to captain Ireland in the Autumn Nations Series. Despite not having played this season, Doris will lead the team in their four November matches, a bold move by coach Andy Farrell. Meanwhile, Keenan’s hip surgery post-Lions series has sidelined him for the autumn—and possibly the rest of 2025—while McCarthy’s foot injury from the Wallabies Test remains a lingering question mark.
Adding to the injury woes, Munster’s Calvin Nash and Ulster’s Cormac Izuchukwu are also out. Nash, who completed Munster’s clash with Edinburgh, has since been ruled out, while Izuchukwu’s foot injury came during the recent 28-7 victory over the Bulls. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is Ireland’s squad depth being tested too early in the season? With only one uncapped player, Paddy McCarthy (Joe’s younger brother), making the cut, the team’s reliance on experience could be both a strength and a vulnerability.
The fixtures are nothing short of daunting. Ireland kicks off against the second-ranked All Blacks in Chicago on November 1, a nod to their historic 2016 victory there. They then return to Dublin to face Japan, Australia, and the reigning world champions, South Africa. And this is the part that sparks debate: Can Ireland maintain their momentum against teams ranked above them in the World Rugby rankings? Farrell seems optimistic, praising the squad’s mix of experience and fresh talent, but the challenge is undeniable.
“This November’s Quilter Nations Series promises to be a great challenge,” Farrell said, highlighting the southern hemisphere teams’ recent form. He also acknowledged Japan’s rapid improvement and Australia’s confident progression since their 150th Anniversary match last year. But here’s the question: Are Ireland underestimating Japan’s rise? While the focus is often on the All Blacks and Springboks, Japan’s evolving domestic competition has made them a formidable opponent.
As the team prepares, Farrell emphasized the importance of home support at Aviva Stadium, calling it a “positive point of difference.” Yet, with injuries sidelining key players and a tough schedule ahead, Ireland’s autumn campaign feels like a high-wire act. Will they rise to the occasion, or will the absences prove too costly? What do you think? Is Ireland’s squad equipped to handle these challenges, or are they walking into a rugby minefield? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
