5 talking points from Joe Schmidt’s first Ireland selection of the season
Will Henshaw and Payne work together?
OVER RECENT MONTHS, the discussion around Ireland’s midfield has been centred on one of Henshaw or Payne filling the 13 shirt, but Schmidt has opted to start both midfielders in this first Test of the season.
Henshaw is somewhat thrown into the deep end in being selected at inside centre, although there is little doubt the 21-year-old has the physical attributes to cope and thrive.
Schmidt likes his 12 to be a focal ball-carrier, a role Henshaw can deliver in. Despite his quiet form at 13 for Ulster, Payne gets the nod as Ireland’s outside centre on his international debut.
Both players are more than capable of stepping up to the required standard, but how will they function as a pairing? Will they swap positions intermittently? Is there a strong defensive trust between the pair?
Jean de Villiers and Jan Serfontein will strive to take advantage of any miscommunication in midfield.
Cronin’s ball-carrying
Cronin brings superb ball carrying to the mix. Source: Colm O’Neill/INPHO
While losing Rory Best to a calf strain was far from ideal for Schmidt, the benefit is that Leinster’s Sean Cronin comes into the starting XV, bringing with him an exceptional ball-carrying ability.
The 28-year-old has had a few miscued throws in recent times, but will back himself to remedy that against a world-class Springboks line-out. Around the pitch, his quality is well flagged and his presence in the team excites in that regard.
Cronin has put many a back to shame in speed sessions, while his understanding of how defences operate allows him to pick intelligent lines more often that not. With Sean O’Brien and Cian Healy absent, his gainline threat may be essential.
Is Rob Kearney fully fit?
Kearney has had back issues early on this season. Source: James Crombie/INPHO
Leinster’s fullback has been suffering with back issues in recent times, although he has trained fully this week, according to the Irish medical team. Doubts over his fitness are based around the inclusion of Felix Jones on the bench.
That said, the Munster man is fully deserving of his spot in the match day squad, having performed superbly in his leadership role for the province. His ability to make yards with every carry, his excellent rucking work and rock-solid tackling make him exactly the type of player Schmidt values.
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