Ireland make nine changes to face New Zealand at Eden Park

Ireland have overhauled their matchday squad by making nine changes ahead of their high-stakes Nations Championship clash against the New Zealand All Blacks at Eden Park, according to reporting by Sky Sports. Andy Farrell has restored his side to full strength following their victory over Japan, recalling several key figures from the 2025 British and Irish Lions as the visitors attempt to break a formidable antipodean streak.

The fixture carries immense weight as the hosts defend a remarkable 32-year, 52-Test unbeaten run at the iconic Auckland venue. Farrell's selection reflects the magnitude of the encounter, bringing back established operators such as centre Garry Ringrose, out-half Sam Prendergast, full-back Hugo Keenan, and scrum-half Jamison Gibson-Park. Up front, hooker and captain Dan Sheehan returns alongside prop Tadhg Furlong, while lock Joe McCarthy and back-rower Josh van der Flier also slot straight back into the starting XV after sitting out the previous outing.

Media additions

Further bolstering the visiting flank, Rob Baloucoune returns on the right wing. Baloucoune had previously been sidelined for wins against both Japan and Australia due to a hamstring injury. Across the selection ledger, six players retain their places from the Japan fixture, while 13 survive from the team that overcame Australia.

Meanwhile, the home camp has made its own calculated adjustments. New Zealand boss Dave Rennie has altered four players from the side that defeated Italy, promoting Josh Moorby to a first start on the wing after his debut appearance. Rennie has also shifted Tupou Vaa'i from lock to blindside flanker, while bringing in Quinn Tupaea to the centre alongside Josh Lord and Patrick Tuipulotu in the second row. Tyrel Lomax gets the nod at tighthead prop ahead of Fletcher Newell.

Rennie explained the thinking behind his bench strategy for handling the Irish challenge, noting via Sky Sports:

"We know how important our bench will be against a team as tenacious as Ireland, so have selected players who we know are capable of making an impact and influencing the course of the game"

Dave Rennie, All Blacks boss, via Sky Sports

To that end, winger Caleb Clarke and back-rower Peter Lakai drop to the reserves alongside recent debutants Xavier Numia and Anton Segner.

The wider international calendar features numerous overlapping fixtures and tournaments across the rugby landscape. Fans tracking global encounters can consult the WXV Global Series guide for international broadcast details. Domestically, supporters can also review Sport coverage for additional updates across codes, including league developments such as the 2026 Rugby League World Cup fixtures.

Team	Key Changes / Selections	Notable Absences / Adjustments
Ireland	Nine changes; returns for Dan Sheehan, Tadhg Furlong, Joe McCarthy, Josh van der Flier, Jamison Gibson-Park, Sam Prendergast, Garry Ringrose, Hugo Keenan, and Rob Baloucoune.	Six players retained from Japan win; 13 retained from Australia win.
New Zealand	Four changes; Josh Moorby earns first start, Tupou Vaa'i shifts to blindside flanker, Quinn Tupaea returns to centre.	Caleb Clarke and Peter Lakai named among the reserves; Fehi Fineanganofo and Leroy Carter unavailable due to shoulder injuries.

Preparations continue across international camps as teams navigate the backend of the season. Followers of the wider game can anticipate further squad updates and tactical shifts as Saturday's kick-off approaches at Eden Park.