James Ryan has overcome an adductor injury and will take the captain’s armband in the absence of Johnny Sexton for Ireland’s opening summer Test against Japan at the Aviva Stadium this weekend. A question mark was placed over Ryan’s availability after the Irish Rugby Football Union revealed the issue earlier in the week but the Leinster lock will take his position in the second row alongside Ultan Dillane. Ryan will also lead the side out, with Sexton joining Cian Healy and Keith Earls in resting for Saturday’s fixture as well as next weekend’s clash against the United States, while seven players are on British and Irish Lions duty. Gavin Coombes is among the replacements – joining Rob Herring, Ed Byrne, John Ryan, Ryan Baird, Craig Casey, Billy Burns and Shane Daly – and the Munster back rower is the only uncapped member of the 23-strong squad. Gavin Coombes, right, is in line for his Ireland debut this Saturday (Donall Farmer/PA)Ireland may be without a host of regulars but Japan head coach Jamie Joseph is taking nothing for granted.

Source: Express July 01, 2021 14:02 UTC