Articles by Jonathan Drennan

Wallabies and Ireland both chasing the same thing in Dublin showdown

A week in the ancient Italian city of Udine should be a highlight of any European holiday. It turned into a nightmare for the Wallabies. The Wallabies have arrived in Dublin to take on Ireland on Saturday (Sunday, 7am, AEDT). On Monday, James O’Connor and Will Skelton will join the squad and be medically assessed, given Skelton injured his ankle against Toulon on Sunday. Both players will bring new energy to a team that has looked sluggish in defeats to England and the Azzurri. Carter Gordon and Angus Bell will also be monitored following the 26-19 loss to Italy, but it is hoped both players will be fit to face Ireland. The Wallabies will run into familiar faces on Saturday. Coach Andy Farrell is back in charge of Ireland after leading the British and Irish Lions to a series win in Australia. He took 18 players from the Emerald Isle with him for the 2-1 series win.

6 hours ago