Injury Blow for Ireland as Osborne Sidelined
Ireland's preparations for their upcoming Quilter Nations Series fixtures have been dealt a significant setback with the news that Jamie Osborne will miss the remainder of the campaign. The versatile Leinster back, who had started Ireland's first two November Tests at full-back, sustained a serious-looking shoulder injury during the victory over Japan on Saturday.
Farrell's Reshuffled Squad and Wallabies' Reinforcement
Osborne's absence for the clashes against Australia and South Africa forces a reshuffle in Andy Farrell's plans. Stepping into the breach is a fit-again Mack Hansen, who significantly bolsters the coach's options for the back three. Connacht lock Darragh Murray has also received a call-up to the squad.
There is more positive news in the midfield, where centre Stuart McCloskey has returned to full training. Having worn the number 12 jersey against the All Blacks in Chicago, he is now in contention for a starting role. The status of Garry Ringrose and Josh van der Flier remains uncertain; both are managing slight hamstring strains, with a decision on their availability expected later in the week.
O'Connor's Return for Australia as Gordon Plays Down Injury
Meanwhile, the Australia squad in Dublin has been strengthened by the arrival of veteran fly-half James O'Connor. The 35-year-old, who featured in all six of Australia's Rugby Championship matches before his move to Leicester, was unavailable for the recent defeat to England as it fell outside of World Rugby's official Test window.
O'Connor's inclusion follows an injury concern for Carter Gordon, who limped out of the Wallabies' loss to Italy in Udine. However, Gordon himself moved to allay serious fears, stating to Stan Sport, "Yeah, [it's] just a little niggle. Just being on the safe side with it. I've been nursing it for a few weeks now and just felt it a little bit there on that last kick but it should be all good to go."
In a definite blow for the visitors, lock Will Skelton will not feature after picking up an ankle injury while playing for his club, La Rochelle, in their Top 14 defeat to Toulon.
