After naming a match-day 23 for Ireland for the Rugby World Cup 2027. It makes sense to take things a step further and look at what the full 33-man squad could realistically look like. Squad selection is always about balancing form, experience, and potential, and there are already a number of players.
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Who have either cemented their spots or are pushing strongly to be included. One of the biggest beneficiaries from the recent Six Nations campaign was Tom O’Toole, who made the most of his opportunity and showed he can perform at the highest level.
Although Paddy McCarthy and Jack Boyle have not had many chances to impress in the green jersey so far. There is a strong feeling that both players are part of Ireland’s long-term plans and could be included in the traveling squad. At tighthead prop, there is growing expectation that Andrew Porter could switch back to that side of the scrum, giving Ireland added flexibility.
Alongside him, Tadhg Furlong remains a key figure when fit, while Tom Clarkson continues to develop into a reliable option. Together, they could form one of the stronger prop groups in the tournament. The hooking position appears far more settled.
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Dan Sheehan and Rónan Kelleher have consistently delivered high-level performances and are unlikely to be displaced. The final spot in that unit will likely come down to a battle between Tom Stewart and Gus McCarthy, both of whom bring different strengths to the role.
In the second row, experience plays a major role. Joe McCarthy, Tadhg Beirne, and James Ryan are all proven performers. And almost certain selections given their consistency and leadership. If Edwin Edogbo can stay fit and continue improving, he could push his way into match-day squads.
Meanwhile, Darragh Murray and Cormac Izuchukwu are also in contention and could provide valuable depth. Ireland’s back row is arguably one of the most secure areas of the squad. Caelan Doris, Josh van der Flier, Ryan Baird, and Jack Conan are all established internationals and bring a mix of physicality, work rate, and experience.
Looking beyond them, younger players such as Brian Gleeson, James McNabney, Bryn Ward, and Ruadhán Quinn are still developing. Of those, Gleeson appears to have the highest ceiling and could emerge as a surprise inclusion.
Nick Timoney has proven his value as an impact player off the bench. While Tom Ahern could also enter the conversation if he can remain injury-free. At fly-half, both Jack Crowley and Sam Prendergast look set to be on the plane to Australia.
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Harry Byrne will be eager to get more game time to strengthen his case. Ciaran Frawley’s versatility across multiple positions could give him an edge when selectors are making final decisions. The scrum-half position is less settled beyond the first choice.
Jamison Gibson-Park remains the clear starter, with Craig Casey still the leading candidate to back him up despite some inconsistent form. The battle for the third spot is wide open, though Nathan Doak currently appears to be in pole position.
That said, Matthew Devine’s move to Ulster could provide him with the platform to challenge strongly if he can establish himself at the club level. In midfield, Stuart McCloskey and Garry Ringrose are expected to travel if they remain fit, given their importance to the team.
Jamie Osborne could shift back into the center role once Hugo Keenan and Mack Hansen return from injury. There is likely to be room for one more specialist center, and Robbie Henshaw or Bundee Aki would be safe choices.
A more speculative pick like Hugh Gavin could be considered. Gavin showed real promise when he broke through from the U20s to make his senior debut. And although injuries and a dip in form have slowed his progress, he still has the potential to make a significant impact.
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