Ireland’s team management have this week announced a 39-man squad to play for the Irish Wolfhounds against the England Saxons in January – and have admitted that they have done so with one eye on the full side’s opening fixture of the 2014 RBS Six Nations in Cardiff.
The plan appears to involve integrating a large core of players with a single coaching staff that will remain in charge for both the Wolfhounds fixture and the upcoming tournament – which will result in having an extended period for the coaches to work with the players.
Most of those who bet on rugby will be arguing the case that the only way is up for Ireland, and the news that they have included six uncapped players among the party will encourage their fans, many of whom who feel that their side have lost their way somewhat in recent years.
This week, head coach Declan Kidney said:
"Our priority is the Wales game, but there is an opportunity in the Wolfhounds match for some of the players as we head into the Six Nations… so this will be the ideal chance for the newer members in the squad to challenge for places in the senior team.”
With Wales starting as strong favourites on many rugby union tips websites to retain their crown this year, Ireland have been pencilled-in as also-rans, but this ploy of looking at a wide range of fresh talent is an exciting one – and one that could change the team’s recent fortunes.
Meanwhile, the announcement that Jamie Heaslip will remain in his role as captain for the forthcoming season, brings an air of stability to what could well be a largely new-look squad when the action gets underway against the defending champions.
