Ireland’s autumn series preparations have been hit with a significant blow as star hooker Ronan Kelleher is set to miss the crucial opening test against New Zealand on 8 November. Leinster confirmed on Monday that Kelleher, 26, underwent a procedure to address an ankle injury and will be out for at least four to six weeks. This timeline places him in serious doubt not only for the All Blacks clash in Dublin but also for Ireland’s other autumn fixtures against Argentina and Fiji.
Kelleher's absence is a major setback for head coach Andy Farrell, who is already facing a hooker crisis. Ireland’s first-choice hooker, Dan Sheehan, is currently recovering from a long-term knee injury, leaving Farrell scrambling for options in the front row. With Ulster duo Rob Herring and Tom Stewart also yet to feature this season, the depth at hooker has suddenly become a glaring concern for the Irish squad.
A Shaky Front Row
Ireland's match against New Zealand has always been one of the most anticipated fixtures in world rugby, but Kelleher's injury raises serious questions about the strength of the Irish front row. Kelleher, who has been pivotal for both Leinster and Ireland, will be sorely missed in the scrum, and his injury couldn't have come at a worse time.
The All Blacks are known for their ferocious forward pack, and Ireland will need every ounce of strength and experience in their front line to stand a chance. With Kelleher and Sheehan sidelined, Ireland’s depth will be tested like never before.
Rob Herring, who would typically be next in line, is yet to play this season, while Tom Stewart is still recovering from a preseason injury. With both of Ulster's hookers currently in doubt, the Irish squad is staring at a potential selection dilemma that could force Andy Farrell to dig deep into his player pool.
Hope in the Midfield: Robbie Henshaw Returns
While the hooker situation is worrisome, there is some light at the end of the tunnel for Ireland. Robbie Henshaw, who missed Leinster’s 26-12 win over Munster last weekend due to a minor injury, has been cleared to return for their upcoming United Rugby Championship derby against Connacht in Galway. Henshaw’s return is a significant boost for both Leinster and Ireland as the centre brings a wealth of experience and dynamism to the midfield.
Henshaw’s presence will be crucial in anchoring Ireland's backline, especially against a team like New Zealand, who can exploit any defensive lapses with deadly precision. His ability to marshal the midfield, combined with his hard-running style, will be key for Ireland as they prepare for one of the toughest matches in world rugby.
Other Injury Woes Continue for Leinster
In addition to Kelleher’s absence, Leinster also faces further injury headaches. Jack Conan and Joe McCarthy have been ruled out of their upcoming trip to Galway due to hamstring injuries, and there are concerns over the availability of Lee Barron, Ryan Baird, and Jordan Larmour, who remain doubtful for the derby.
For Leinster, this growing injury list couldn't come at a worse time. As they aim to maintain their dominance in the United Rugby Championship, losing key players could hinder their momentum in the crucial weeks ahead.
Ireland’s Hooker Crisis: Who Will Step Up?
With the All Blacks test looming, Ireland’s biggest question now lies in who will step into the role of hooker. The unavailability of both Kelleher and Sheehan places tremendous pressure on Andy Farrell to find a solution, and fast. Rob Herring remains the obvious choice, but his lack of game time this season could make his return to the international stage a risky gamble.
Alternatively, Tom Stewart may be rushed back into action, but this, too, comes with its risks. Farrell will need to carefully weigh his options, as the hooker position will be pivotal against the All Blacks’ powerful forwards.
If neither Herring nor Stewart can return in time, Farrell may be forced to consider less experienced options, which could leave Ireland vulnerable in the set-piece battle—a key area where New Zealand will undoubtedly seek to exploit any Irish weaknesses.
The Road Ahead: Autumn Series Challenges
Beyond the clash with the All Blacks, Ireland faces Argentina on 16 November, Fiji on 23 November, and concludes their series with a showdown against Australia on 30 November. While Kelleher may recover in time to feature later in the series, the question remains whether Ireland can hold their own in the early tests without him.
With the Rugby World Cup in mind, these matches are vital for Andy Farrell to assess his squad depth and build momentum heading into next year. However, the hooker crisis could have a significant impact on Ireland’s ability to perform at their best, particularly against a team as formidable as New Zealand.
For now, Ireland’s focus must shift to finding a solution in the front row and ensuring their hooker crisis does not derail their autumn series. While the return of Robbie Henshaw offers some reprieve, the absence of Kelleher and Sheehan casts a shadow over Ireland’s autumn campaign.
