Former England Prop Kieran Brookes Named in Ireland XV Squad for Fiji A Clash

Squad Selection Details

Former England international prop Kieran Brookes has been named in the 28-man Ireland XV squad to face Fiji A on Friday, 20 November, in Cork. The 36-year-old Munster player is eligible for Ireland selection through his grandparents and is now free to switch international allegiance following a stand-down period exceeding the mandatory 36 months required by World Rugby laws.

Brookes previously earned 16 caps for England, with his last appearance occurring in 2016. His inclusion in the Ireland XV setup follows his recent move to Munster, which satisfied IRFU criteria regarding provincial representation.

Notable Inclusions

The squad features a mix of experienced talent and emerging prospects:

• Joey Carbery: The 30-year-old fly-half, who recently returned to Leinster, is set to play for Ireland for the first time in four years.
• Dan Kelly: The former England international, currently at Munster, has also been named in the panel.
• Coaching: The group will be under the guidance of Ulster attack coach Mark Sexton.

Match Context

The Ireland XV fixture is scheduled for 20 November, one day before Ireland's senior team, coached by Andy Farrell, competes against South Africa in Dublin. The selection highlights the IRFU's focus on integrating provincial-based players into the national system.

Full Ireland XV Panel

Forwards: Tom Ahern, Jack Aungier, Paul Boyle, Kieran Brookes, Will Connors, Eoin de Buitlear, Edwin Edogbo, Sean Edogbo, Brian Gleeson, Cormac Izuchukwu, Gus McCarthy, David McCann, Michael Milne, Conor O'Tighearnaigh, Scott Penny, Alex Usanov. Backs: Joey Carbery, Matthew Devine, Cathal Forde, Fintan Gunne, James Hume, Dan Kelly, Shay McCarthy, Ethan McIlroy, Jack Murphy, Daniel Ryan, Finnt Treacy, Harry West.