New Caps Named! Ireland's Rugby Squad Faces Portugal This Weekend!

By: Marcelo Colombo Published On: 12/07/2025

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Ireland's rugby team is set to face Portugal in Lisbon this Saturday, with interim coach Paul O'Connell naming two uncapped players in the starting lineup. Winger Shayne Bolton and flanker Alex Kendellen will both earn their first caps in what is a significantly changed side.

Connacht's Hugh Gavin is also in line for his debut, named among the replacements. O'Connell has made five changes to the team that secured a 34-5 victory over Georgia last Saturday.

The changes are largely due to the absence of many regular players, who are currently touring Australia with the British & Irish Lions. Head coach Andy Farrell and Simon Easterby are also away with the Lions.

Bolton replaces Jacob Stockdale on the left wing, after Stockdale suffered an injury in the first half against Georgia. Jack Crowley will take over at flyhalf, with Sam Prendergast rested. Kendellen joins Ryan Baird and the returning Cian Prendergast in the back row. Tom Ahern will make his first international start, partnering Darragh Murray in the second row.

"I have been really pleased with the attitude of the players over the last number of weeks," said O'Connell. "The dedication and diligence of the squad in testing conditions over in Tbilisi demonstrated the players’ willingness to embrace challenges, and hopefully that bodes well again this weekend."

He added, "Portugal are another impressive emerging side who look to play an exciting brand of rugby, and we know that we’re in for another battle, hopefully in front of another big crowd of travelling supporters."