Ireland v New Zealand talking points: Andy Farrell’s side keen to right wrongs

Ireland launch their Autumn Nations Series fixtures with Friday evening’s mouthwatering clash against New Zealand.

The All Blacks, who knocked Andy Farrell’s men out of last year’s Rugby World Cup, arrive in Dublin on the back of a 24-22 win against England.

Here, the PA news agency picks out some of the main talking points ahead of the sold-out Aviva Stadium showdown.

Revenge not on the agenda

Scrum struggles

Struggles at the scrum were a contributing factor to Ireland’s quest to lift the Webb Ellis Cup falling short just over 12 months ago. They will need to rectify those issues if they are to change the outcome this time around and must do so with a rejigged front row. Injury has deprived the hosts of star tighthead prop Tadhg Furlong, resulting in a start for Finlay Bealham, while they appear rusty at hooker. With first-choice number two Dan Sheehan sidelined, Ronan Kelleher is thrust straight in after recovering from an ankle issue. Replacement hooker Rob Herring has not played this season.

Captain Caelan

Ireland number eight Caelan Doris is already being touted as Farrell’s captain for next year’s British and Irish Lions tour of Australia. The in-form 26-year-old has a major opportunity to further stake his claim for that role this month after taking the captaincy from Peter O’Mahony. Doris first skippered Ireland against Italy in this year’s Six Nations before leading his country to July’s series-levelling 25-24 win against South Africa in Durban. “He’s thriving in the role now,” Farrell said of Doris’ leadership. “You can see that, he’s certainly walking tall. He’s taken it all in his stride and that puts everyone else at ease.”

Extra edge

All Blacks eyeing improvement