Injury Blow Strikes Ireland’s Autumn Internationals Squad

Ireland’s preparations for the upcoming autumn international series have been dealt a significant setback with the loss of Connacht wing Mack Hansen due to injury. The British and Irish Lion has been ruled out of the squad after aggravating a foot injury during Connacht’s narrow 28-27 defeat to the Bulls in the United Rugby Championship on Friday.

The versatile Hansen was forced off late in the game, and an official squad update on Monday confirmed he will miss the tough run of fixtures against New Zealand, Japan, Australia, and world champions South Africa.

Squad Additions and Injury Assessments

While Hansen is definitely out, two other Lions, Bundee Aki (hip) and Robbie Henshaw (groin), will continue to be assessed. Both centres are set to travel with the squad to Chicago on Tuesday for the opening match against the All Blacks on November 1st.

In response to the injuries, head coach Andy Farrell has called up two new players: uncapped Munster centre Tom Farrell and Leinster’s Jimmy O’Brien. Their inclusion comes as Edwin Edogbo (concussion) and Brian Gleeson (elbow) are also ruled out and will not travel to Chicago as planned.

The injury woes compound earlier losses, as Farrell is already without Lions duo Joe McCarthy and Hugo Keenan.

Captain’s Fitness In Doubt

Further uncertainty surrounds the fitness of captain Caelan Doris. His availability for the New Zealand clash remains unclear as he has only recently returned to Leinster training following shoulder surgery.

Ireland Rugby Team kicks off their campaign against the All Blacks at Soldier Field in Chicago, a repeat of their memorable 2016 fixture. Following that away match, they will return to Dublin to host Japan, Australia, and South Africa.