Ireland Six Nations Squad: Farrell’s Winners and Losers for Scotland Clash

Andy Farrell has named his Ireland squad for the crucial Six Nations showdown against Scotland, a match that could decide the Triple Crown and potentially the championship title. The selections have sparked debate, with some players poised to make a significant impact and others facing an uphill battle for game time. Here’s a breakdown of the winners and losers from Farrell’s latest squad announcement.

Winners

Jack Conan

Despite often excelling as a replacement, Jack Conan has retained his starting position, benefiting from Tadhg Beirne’s shift to lock following James Ryan’s injury. Conan delivered a strong performance in the victory over Wales and will aim to replicate that form against Scotland.

Craig Casey

Despite the promising form of Nathan Doak, Craig Casey remains Jamison Gibson-Park’s backup scrum-half, earning a spot on the bench after being omitted against Wales. Casey will be eager to prove his worth should he get an opportunity against the Scots, particularly after receiving a yellow card earlier in the tournament against Italy.

Josh van der Flier

Though not always at his peak in this Six Nations campaign, with the exception of the match against England, Josh van der Flier has been shown faith by Andy Farrell with a starting position. He was rested against Italy and came off the bench against Wales, where Nick Timoney impressed at openside, but Farrell has opted to start the experienced flanker.

Darragh Murray

A surprise inclusion in the squad, Darragh Murray has earned a place on the bench for Ireland’s biggest game of the competition. The Connacht lock has not yet featured in the Six Nations but has evidently impressed Farrell in training, securing a spot in the 23-man squad.

Bundee Aki

Despite serving a ban for “verbal abuse and disrespect” towards match officials during a United Rugby Championship game, Bundee Aki’s Test prospects appear undiminished. Although his suspension opened the door for Stuart McCloskey to establish himself at inside centre, Farrell clearly still values the Connacht player’s contribution. Farrell expects Aki to sign a new Ireland deal despite his age.

Losers

Edwin Edogbo

Despite expectations for a breakthrough in the 2026 Six Nations, Edwin Edogbo has seen limited game time, with only 10 minutes off the bench throughout the championship. His power and physicality are attributes Ireland could benefit from, making his lack of playing time a surprise.

Nathan Doak

Although Doak made his international debut against Wales, Andy Farrell appears to favor Craig Casey as the second-choice scrum-half. Doak will need to continue performing well for Ulster to challenge Casey for the backup role.

Sam Prendergast

Sam Prendergast continues to miss out on selection, indicating that Farrell believes the 22-year-old still has areas for improvement before returning to the Ireland 23. Jack Crowley has solidified his position as the starting fly-half, with Ciaran Frawley providing a versatile option off the bench.

Jacob Stockdale

Despite a try against Wales, Jacob Stockdale has not done enough to regain a regular starting spot, with Tommy O’Brien’s impressive performance against England earning him the nod on the wing.

Cian Prendergast and Cormac Izuchukwu

The decision to name a 5-3 split on the bench reduced the chances of both Cian Prendergast and Cormac Izuchukwu being included in the squad. The selection of Tadhg Beirne at lock and three specialist back-rows further limited opportunities for the two players.

Tom Farrell

Tom Farrell has paid the price for Bundee Aki’s inclusion, having received only 11 minutes off the bench in the previous round against Wales. The change to a 5-3 bench split opened the door for Aki, resulting in Farrell’s omission.

Ireland face Scotland at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday, with a Triple Crown and potential Six Nations title on the line. Andy Farrell has made four changes to the starting XV from the win over Wales, hoping to secure a positive result in Dublin.