International Preview: Ireland v New Zealand,
Soldier Field, Chicago, Saturday, 8.10pm,
Live on Virgin Media TV and TNT Sports
The Rematch indeed. Commercial imperatives have brought Ireland and the All Blacks back to the scene of the breakthrough win nine years ago. Yet, while this latest instalment of the rivalry cannot match the significance of that day, there’s no doubting this game’s importance.
As well as setting the tone for the month ahead, the world rankings will determine the seeding for the 2027 World Cup draw on December 3rd. New Zealand are second, Ireland sit third and with games against Japan, Australia (seventh) and South Africa (first), they must retain their place in the top six to ensure being in the top band of seeds.
Ireland’s playing survivors from that 40-29 win in 2016 are Tadhg Furlong, who was starting just his second Test, and three of the replacements: Finlay Bealham, Josh van der Flier and Garry Ringrose (albeit the latter was unused).
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