As Ireland prepare for the northern hemisphere series in the 2026 Nations Championship, BBC Sport NI takes a look at how Andy Farrell's side is shaping up. The last time Ireland entered an autumn schedule a year out from the Rugby World Cup, Andy Farrell's side were riding the crest of a wave. Buoyed by their seismic Test series triumph over the All Blacks in New Zealand, Ireland dispatched South Africa, Fiji and Australia to end 2022 top of the world rankings.
Since then, Ireland's place among rugby's elite has often looked less than assured. Persistent defeats by New Zealand, South Africa and France have raised questions about the team's trajectory. With Argentina, Fiji and South Africa visiting Dublin over the next three weeks, Ireland have the chance to give their journey to Australia a much-needed boost. The sequence of poor results against rugby's heavyweights is a key concern. Ireland have lost their past six meetings with New Zealand, France and South Africa by double-digit margins, scoring 101 points and conceding 191. The most recent reverses, a 36-14 loss in France in this year's Six Nations and a 40-21 defeat at Eden Park in July, were the heaviest.
It has not been all gloom. The manner in which Ireland tore through England at Twickenham earlier this year was a thrilling reminder of their big-game prowess. To alter the narrative, Farrell's side must avoid home losses to Argentina and Fiji before renewing hostilities with South Africa. Last year, the Springboks beat Ireland 24-13 in Dublin. Landing a knockout blow on the world champions at this stage would be a significant statement.
Farrell also needs his strongest front row to topple the South African scrum, and the availability of Tadhg Furlong has been welcomed. Further back, captain Caelan Doris and Jack Conan are ruled out, leaving Sean Jansen as the frontrunner at number eight. Fly-half Sam Prendergast's fitness is uncertain, though Ireland remain "optimistic" he will be available.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing