Ireland scrum-half Jamison Gibson-Park has described playing against New Zealand as a “brotherly rivalry,” reflecting both his Kiwi roots and his passion for representing Ireland on the international stage.

From New Zealand to Ireland

Born in New Zealand, Gibson-Park qualified to play for Ireland rugby in 2019 after completing three years with Leinster Rugby. Since then, the 33-year-old has earned 43 caps for Ireland and continues to be a key figure in Andy Farrell’s squad.

Looking ahead to Ireland’s upcoming clash with the All Blacks in Chicago on 1 November, Gibson-Park said:

“It’s always one I want to be a part of, and I love coming up against those guys. It dates back to my childhood… it is a bit like a brotherly rivalry. I played against lots of these guys when I was younger, so I get that feel. This one will be no different.”

Memorable First Encounter

Gibson-Park vividly recalls his first match against his country of birth, when Ireland defeated New Zealand 29-20 in November 2021.

“It was strange, I thought I was ready for it but when you get out there in the moment it hits you pretty hard. Strange, but pretty awesome. It was pretty special to face the haka and have the anthems,” he reflected.

Leinster Reunion with Rieko Ioane

Following the international break, Gibson-Park will reunite at Leinster with All Blacks centre Rieko Ioane, who is joining the Irish province on a seven-month sabbatical from the Blues.

“I trained with him with the Blues. I was 21 so I think he was still in school, he was that well thought of. Since then, I haven’t had much to do with him, but like a lot of people we were shocked when it was announced. Normally, you get a bit of a whisper, but this hit us point blank,” Gibson-Park said.

The move has intrigued both players and fans, particularly given past tensions after Ireland’s 2023 World Cup exit to the All Blacks, which was Johnny Sexton’s final game as a player.

Mentorship from Johnny Sexton

Gibson-Park is also looking forward to continuing his work alongside former Ireland captain Johnny Sexton, now part of Farrell’s backroom coaching team.

“He’s an awesome person to have around camp. It’s different seeing him in that light, but he is still Johnny and when he speaks, everyone listens. We’re really lucky to have him around,” he said.

With his blend of experience, skill, and Kiwi-born intensity, Gibson-Park remains a pivotal player for Ireland Rugby, particularly as they prepare to face one of the toughest challenges on the international calendar: the All Blacks.