Ireland have lost captain Caelan Doris and back-row Tommy O'Brien to injury ahead of the Nations Championship Southern Series. Doris exited Leinster’s URC final at Croke Park with a foot problem, while O'Brien limped off with a groin complaint. Their absences open spots for Ulster’s uncapped siblings Bryn and Zac Ward, who earn their first caps. Their selection highlights the lack of seasoned forwards.

Missing Doris and O'Brien means Ireland will travel without their regulars for tests against Australia (July 4), Japan (July 11) and New Zealand (July 18). Coach Andy Farrell, whose contract was extended to the 2031 World Cup, already faces a depleted roster after Jack Crowley, Andrew Porter and Mack Hansen joined the injury list, alongside seven others for the summer campaign.

The injury cascade forces Farrell to reshuffle the squad, with Leinster hooker Dan Sheehan captaining the touring party in Sydney. While the Ward brothers gain valuable exposure, Ireland enter the series with a thin bench and limited experience at lock and back row. The team will rely on depth to stay competitive in the three-test tour in the Southern Series.