Code-switcher Joseph Sua’ali’i has recovered from injury and will be playing for Australia in the upcoming rugby test against Ireland. The match will also mark flyhalf Sam Prendergast’s second consecutive start for Australia, while Cian Healy is set to earn his national record 134th cap for Ireland.
Sua’ali’i, who switched from rugby league last month, was injured in Australia’s previous match against Scotland but has been declared fit to play in the final game of Australia’s end-of-year European tour. Meanwhile, Prendergast will be making his third start for Australia, replacing Jack Crowley at No. 10.
Healy, aged 37, will surpass Brian O’Driscoll’s record of 133 caps for Ireland if he comes off the bench in Dublin. Ireland coach Andy Farrell praised Healy as a “giant of Irish rugby” and expressed the team’s determination to deliver a performance worthy of his achievement.
Australia’s head coach Joe Schmidt acknowledged the challenges faced by the team over the past year but emphasized their growth and readiness to challenge themselves against a strong Ireland squad.
The lineup for the upcoming match includes debutant Tane Edmed and the return of Max Jorgensen for Australia, while Ireland features a cohesive team led by captain Caelan Doris. The match is expected to be a tough yet exciting encounter between the two competitive rugby nations.
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