Ireland won all 10 throws last weekend, a couple scruffily, but also pilfered four on the Wallaby throws and forced Joe Schmidt’s side to cough up another couple with crooked or overthrown deliveries. The Irish ascendancy did more to destabilise Australia’s launch plays than any other single element in the Test match. It’s a responsibility that he’s carried easily through 2025, leading the Irish lineout in winning possession out of touch 46 times in nine matches, including steals. The Springboks have caused Ireland lineout problems in the three most recent meetings. In the World Cup pool match, which Farrell’s side won, Ireland lost six throws, while in the 1-1 drawn series in South Africa, the Irish lineout was firing at just under 80 per cent.

Source: The Irish Times November 21, 2025 16:30 UTC