Irish RWC Squad Depth Chart- Back Row

With the Rugby World Cup fast approaching and Joe Schmidt’s squad announcement imminent, each day we will look at a different part of the squad to try and decipher who will make the final 31-man squad for the tournament in Japan.

Schmidt is likely to opt for a split in favour of forwards with 17/14 a possible outcome.

As such he may choose, 5 props, 3 hookers, 4 locks and 5 back rows

Today we will look at the Back Row in the fourth part of the series.

2019 RWC Potential Irish Props.

2019 RWC Potential Irish Hookers.

2019 RWC Potential Irish Locks

On the Plane

Injuries to Dan Leavy and Sean O’Brien have opened up spots on what was widely considered Ireland’s most stacked line.

There are still some certainties in the form of Peter O’Mahony, Josh van der Flier and CJ Stander, with that trio all but guaranteed to start Ireland’s opener against Scotland on Spetember 22 barring injury.

Likely to Travel

Jack Conan has proved solid backup to CJ Stander and should continue that role in Japan. The inclusion of Beirne and Henderson as cover for the flankers allows Schmidt the opportunity to include a second specialized No. 8.

The final spot is a toss-up between Tommy O’Donnel, Rhys Ruddock and Jordi Murphy. The latter has enjoyed a sort of resurgence since his move up North and just pips the others to secure his place.

Missing Out

As such, Munster’s Tommy O’Donnell and Rhys Ruddock look set to miss out despite some quality performances for their country over the years.

Potential Irish RWC Back Rows

Jack Conan (14 Caps)

Jordi Murphy (28)

Peter O’Mahony (57)

CJ Stander (31)

Josh van der Flier (17)