Ireland Could Be Without Key Players Ryan, Hansen for All Blacks Rugby World Cup Clash
Ireland could be without lock James Ryan and winger Mack Hansen for their crucial Rugby World Cup quarter-final against New Zealand on Saturday.
Ryan, Hansen Miss Training Session
Ryan returned to Dublin for a hand injury scan after missing training Tuesday. Hansen watched from the stands, having sustained a calf issue after passing a head injury assessment.
Their potential absences would be a major blow against the formidable All Blacks.
Wingers Lowe, Earls Could Return
There was some good news, as wingers James Lowe and Keith Earls trained after previous injuries. Center Robbie Henshaw also surprisingly returned ahead of schedule from a hamstring problem.
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Lowe was withdrawn at halftime against Scotland with an eye complaint but participated in non-contact drills. Veteran Earls seems ready to replace Hansen if needed after missing Scotland with a hamstring issue.
Team Announcement Brought Forward
Coach Andy Farrell will name Ireland’s team on Wednesday, moving the announcement up 24 hours. Meanwhile, England’s Wayne Barnes will referee the quarter-final.
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Ireland will hope Ryan and Hansen recover in time for the All Blacks clash. But if not, the timely returns of Earls, Lowe, and Henshaw will provide needed reinforcements.
