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Ireland are coming off a disappointing Six Nations, which led to Declan Kidney departing as head coach and being replaced by ex-Leinster coach Joe Schmidt.
Schmidt will be biting into international rugby for the first time and has much to do if he wants Ireland to reach further than the quarter-finals of the Rugby World Cup.
Schmidt needs to blood new players into the team during the end of year Tests and next year’s Six Nations. It’s vital for two reasons.
Firstly, there is under two years left until the World Cup and secondly, Ireland have several players nearing retirement from the international scene.
Legendary centre Brian O’Driscoll is likely to retire at the end of this season, while the immense lock Paul O’Connell next week will be 34. It is likely he will retire from international rugby before the World Cup.
Schmidt’s first game as Ireland coach is against Samoa, who (behind South Africa) have become one of the most improved sides in the last 12 months.
Their next game is against the Australians, who the Irish have done well against of late. Their excellent performance in the 2011 World Cup pool stage at Eden Park was one of their best performances in recent years.
Finally, Schmidt’s team finishes the year with a daunting task against the All Blacks.
No doubt the Kiwis want to finish off the year with a victory, unlike last year when they were surprised by England.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.