
Rugby
Share
Published 16:30 6 Nov 2014 GMT
Updated 16:26 6 Nov 2014 GMT
Explore more on these topics:
Six Nations wingers Andrew Trimble and Dave Kearney miss out through injury and time-tabled rehab respectively. In come Simon Zebo, who performed well for Schmidt during the Argentina tour, and Ulster's Tommy Bowe. Felix Jones is named on the bench so Craig Gilroy may have to wait for his chance to impress against Georgia. Three of Schmidt's trusted lieutenants - Rob Kearney, Johnny Sexton and Conor Murray - are named in the backs but the first two have trained lightly due to back and hamstring niggles.
Addressing Henshaw's midfield selection for only his second Test start, Schmidt commented: 'There's never going to be a perfect time (to try the midfield combination).'
The 21-year-old started at inside centre once this season, against Exeter in the Challenge Cup.
'I know Robbie started the game at 13. If he ran at 12 (against Exeter) it is no different. It's similar to De Villiers. He runs at 13 but defends as a 12,' said Schmidt.
The transient nature of the Irish backline and the absence of both Cian Healy and Rory Best from the front row make the Springbok match all the more daunting. Irish supporters will be pleased to hear Schmidt give tight-head Mike Ross the fitness all-clear.
Ireland have been in camp for two weeks and Schmidt will have his team revved, and swatted, up to tick a box they failed to do last November - defeating a southern hemisphere superpower.The SportsJOE Friday Pub Quiz: Week 139
Another tricky teaser! Few were able to tame last week’s SportsJOE Pub Quiz, but this week is a tad easier. Still, however, you will have to have been paying attention to all the sport going on over the last week. Only true sport aficionados – with an interest in Champions League, championship GAA, golf, and […]
Rugby
1 day ago
Frustrated English side nearing shock move to URC
This would be mad! English RFU Championship club Ealing Trailfinders are tipped to join the United Rugby Championships if the Wales Rugby Union are successful in cutting a region ahead of the 2027-2028 campaign. The Gallagher Premiership is transitioning to a franchise based model – welcomed by the top English clubs as it provides stability […]
Rugby
1 day ago
Live sport on TV in Ireland this weekend – Football, GAA, Rugby – May 1st to 4th
Rugby