Ireland is gearing up for their Six Nations encounter against Wales, with Joe McCarthy and Mack Hansen expected to return from injury. Tadhg Furlong remains doubtful, while Caelan Doris is being managed for a potential minor knock. Simon Easterby continues to impress as interim head coach, navigating the team through this period of transition.
Ireland is optimistic about the availability of Joe McCarthy and Mack Hansen for their upcoming Six Nations clash against Wales on Saturday week. Both players have been recovering from injuries – McCarthy from a facial injury sustained before the opening match against England, and Hansen from a hamstring problem that forced him to withdraw from the Scotland game.
These setbacks mean they have missed part of the Six Nations so far, but their full participation in training this week has boosted Ireland's hopes. Ireland's Head of Athletic Performance, Aled Walters, confirmed their positive progress, stating, 'Mack and Joe are training fully, they're good.' Meanwhile, Tadhg Furlong remains a doubt for the Wales game as he continues his recovery from a calf injury. Walters indicated that Furlong is closing in on a return but the Wales match might be too soon. 'I think we'll need to make a call during the week,' he said. 'He's got a bit of work to do. But we'd be anticipating that, if he's not there, he's close anyway.' Caelan Doris, Ireland's captain, also sat out training today, with his workload being carefully managed in the lead-up to the match in Cardiff. Walters explained that this is a precautionary measure following two demanding Test matches. 'It's just general (for Doris), they've been two pretty attritional Test matches, haven't they?' he said. 'The way Caelan plays, you're going to pick up little bangs and bruises. It's just that.'This week, the Ireland squad enjoyed some extra days off, taking advantage of the Six Nations break before training against the Ireland U20s in Abbotstown. The team is preparing to face a Wales side undergoing a period of significant transition, with Warren Gatland's recent departure as head coach. Matt Sherratt, from Cardiff, will take charge for Wales' remaining three Six Nations matches but has indicated he does not desire the full-time position. Ireland's interim head coach, Simon Easterby, has been one of the names linked with the vacant role. Walters acknowledged the ongoing speculation surrounding Easterby, emphasizing his quality and the natural inclination to associate him with the Welsh vacancy due to his residence there. Walters also expressed his admiration for Easterby's performance in stepping into Andy Farrell's shoes for the Six Nations. He highlighted Easterby's diligence, consideration, and commitment to the role, stating that 'everyone has done a little extra now to make sure that things remain on course, remain as they have been.' He added that the players seem content under Easterby's leadership, even appreciating his provision of a sauna. Walters concluded by noting that Easterby has been an integral part of the Ireland setup for some time, having served as a leader during the Autumn Internationals
Rugby Six Nations Ireland Wales Joe Mccarthy Mack Hansen Tadhg Furlong Caelan Doris Simon Easterby Injuries Team News
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