Ryan and Hansen unlikely to feature in Ireland’s quarter-final
PARIS, FRANCE - OCTOBER 07: James Ryan of Ireland in action during the Rugby World Cup France 2023 match between Ireland and Scotland at Stade de France on October 07, 2023 in Paris, France. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Second row James Ryan and winger Mack Hansen are major doubts for Ireland‘s Rugby World Cup quarter-final with New Zealand this Saturday.
Ryan has reportedly returned to Dublin for a scan on his hand while Hansen had to watch Ireland’s training session on Tuesday from the stands of the Stade des Fauvettes, Ireland’s training base in Tours, because of a calf issue.
But in a boost to boss Andy Farrell, James Lowe was training as normal after his eye injury on Saturday and both Keith Earls and Robbie Henshaw were also able to train despite hamstring problems.
They’ll be no further updates on the condition of Ireland’s injured players until the team has been announced on Wednesday.
Lowe sported a white bib during the session, which exempted him from taking part in full contact training as he continues his recovery.
Assuming he is able to recover and take part on Saturday, he may be joined by Earls on the opposite wing who has made a quicker than expected recovery from his hamstring issue.
It was initially thought Earls would not be able to return until the semi-finals, but it appears he may have timed his return to perfection if he is able to step up in the absence of Hansen.
Ireland’s much anticipated fixture kicks off at 8pm on Saturday at the Stade de France, the fourth match in a row they will have played in that time slot and the third match in a row they are playing in France’s national stadium.
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