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Published 14:28 11 Jul 2017 BST
Updated 14:58 11 Jul 2017 BST
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As for midfield, that is not so simple.
Robbie Henshaw [shoulder] may not be fit enough for the start of the series and Garry Ringrose [shoulder] is out until the turn of the year. Luke Marshall and Rory Scannell both featured in the summer tour and should be included in the wider squad. Jared Payne will have hopefully had his migraine issues resolved too.
Schmidt may bring Connacht's Bundee Aki in for a look. 12 months ago, fans would have been fit to burst at the news but Aki's performances tapered off - and his temperament was questioned - as Connacht struggled to defend their PRO12 title and do battle in the Champions Cup.
The exciting prospect here is former Ulster and Grenoble centre Chris Farrell. Newly signed for Munster, Farrell has been in touch with Schmidt several times over the past 18 months. While he missed out on the summer tour, a strong start to the new season should see him come into the fold.
Our second row is a potentially devastating combination but one of Ultan Dillane or Iain Henderson will have to put themselves forward for greater responsibility and calling at the lineout. We accept that the call [below] is harsh on Devin Toner.
As for the half backs, if Sexton does not take a six-month sabbatical he should resume is Ireland/Lions partnership with the excellent Murray.
IRELAND TEAM
15. Jared Payne
14. Keith Earls
13. Chris Farrell
12. Bundee Aki
11. Simon Zebo
10. Johnny Sexton
9 Conor Murray
1. Jack McGrath
2. Rory Best (c)
3. Tadhg Furlong
4. Ultan Dillane
5. Iain Henderson
6. Peter O'Mahony
7. Sean O'Brien
8. CJ Stander
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