The Ireland rugby team is preparing to rekindle one of its most famous victories as they face the New Zealand All Blacks at Soldier Field, Chicago, on Saturday, 1 November, in the Autumn Nations Series. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:10 GMT, with live coverage available via BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, BBC Radio Ulster, BBC Sounds, and live text updates on the BBC Sport website and app.
Revisiting the Historic 2016 Chicago Win
Nine years ago, Ireland stunned the rugby world by claiming their first-ever win over the All Blacks in Chicago, ending a 111-year wait. At the time, New Zealand were reigning world champions on an 18-game winning streak, having dominated 27 of their previous 28 encounters with Ireland.
Hooker Codie Taylor recently reflected that the All Blacks may have been distracted by the excitement surrounding the Chicago Cubs’ first baseball World Series win in 108 years, while Ireland focused on lifting their century-long hoodoo. That historic day transformed Irish rugby and ignited a fierce rivalry between the sides.
Ireland’s Squad: Youth and Experience Combined
Ireland head coach Andy Farrell, who led the 2022 series triumph in New Zealand, faces criticism from some quarters that his squad is “ageing and undercooked.” However, Farrell has opted for form players, blending youth and experience:
- Jack Crowley reclaimed the fly-half jersey after strong performances for Munster.
- Stuart McCloskey and Tommy O’Brien are confirmed starters at inside centre and right wing.
- In the pack, Ryan Baird is back in the starting six position, while 22-year-old prop Paddy McCarthy is on the bench after impressing in the under-20s and making his first Leinster start recently.
Hooker Dan Sheehan will captain the side, having previously led Ireland in the Six Nations and the British & Irish Lions against Western Force. Sheehan said the 2016 Chicago win remains “a life moment for every Irish sports fan” and the squad is excited to relive a part of that history.
Key Injuries and Comebacks
Ireland’s preparations have been impacted by injuries, with regular starters Hugo Keenan, Joe McCarthy, and Mack Hansen unavailable. Caelan Doris will begin on the bench after recovering from shoulder surgery, while Sheehan’s leadership at hooker adds stability to the pack.
All Blacks Targeting a Third Successive Win
New Zealand come into the match seeking a third consecutive win over Ireland after narrowly defeating them in the 2023 World Cup quarter-final in Paris and securing a 23-13 victory in Dublin last year.
- Beauden Barrett returns at fly-half, strengthening the All Blacks’ playmaking capabilities.
- Ardie Savea has consistently troubled Ireland in past encounters.
- Will Jordan, a prolific full-back, has scored five tries against Ireland and remains one of the game’s deadliest finishers.
Though Ireland aim to replicate their historic 2016 performance, the All Blacks’ experience and attacking firepower make them formidable opponents.
Match Significance
With the United States set to host the Rugby World Cup in 2031, this autumn clash in Chicago serves as both a showcase for international rugby and a test of Ireland’s squad depth. Fans clad in green jerseys will fill Soldier Field, recalling memories of 2016 while supporting Ireland’s pursuit of a second historic victory over the All Blacks on American soil.
Expected Line-ups
Ireland: J Osborne; T O’Brien, G Ringrose, S McCloskey, J Lowe; J Crowley, J Gibson-Park; A Porter, D Sheehan (capt), T Furlong, J Ryan, T Beirne, R Baird, J van der Flier, J Conan.
Replacements: R Kelleher, P McCarthy, F Bealham, I Henderson, C Doris, C Casey, S Prendergast, B Aki.
New Zealand: W Jordan; L Carter, Q Tupaea, J Barrett, C Clarke; B Barrett, C Roigard; E De Groot, C Taylor, F Newell, S Barrett (capt), F Holland, S Parker, A Savea, P Lakai.
Replacements: S Taukei’aho, T Williams, P Tosi, J Lord, W Sititi, C Ratima, L Fainga’anuku, D McKenzie.
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