Jordi Murphy To Replace Jack Conan In Ireland Squad

Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt yesterday announced that Jack Conan sustained a foot injury and has been ruled out of the rest of the Rugby World Cup.

It has been confirmed today that Ulster back rower Jordi Murphy has been called up. The 28-year-old Murphy, who played at the 2015 World Cup, will arrive in Japan today (Sunday) and join up with the squad at their new team base in Kobe.

Speaking at a press conference earlier today, Ireland forwards coach Simon Easterby said: “Unfortunately, Jack had to leave and it’s a real blow. I think he has come on hugely in the last 12 months, not just at provincial level but at international level.

“He’s a quality rugby player who can break the game up. He’s a bit of a freak with the ball in hand so it’s a real loss to the group, but we are very fortunate that Jordi will be joining us. He gives us great coverage (across the back row), he’s been in the squad for a number of years, and he has played in some big games.

“He can cover every position in the back row, which obviously gives us a good deal of flexibility across that back row with things starting to ramp up a little bit. As we go through the tournament, guys will pick up bumps and niggles. It’s great to have Jordi coming in and he’ll slot straight in this week.”

Ireland, who are currently second in Pool A on six points, will play Russia at the Kobe Misaki Stadium on Thursday at 7.15pm local time/11.15am Irish time. The team to play the Bears will be announced on Tuesday.