We need to accept at this stage that Andy Farrell will play what HE believes to be Ireland's strongest 23, in all important games, with little room for deviation.
It sounds eerily similar to the days of Eddie O'Sullivan and Joe Schmidt, when in form players struggled to get a look in ahead of out of sorts starters.
Thankfully, the major difference between the current squad is that they are all playing at, or near, their peak, and Andy Farrell's favourites are objectively the best available in their positions.
Continuity is key for Ireland's head coach and his gamble to pick his strongest side against Tonga has paid off, with a clean bill of health for the side.
Ireland Take On South Africa Next Week In huge Rugby World Cup Clash
16 September 2023; Conor Murray of Ireland offloads a pass to teammate Garry Ringrose in the built up to their side's fourth try, scored by teammate Jonathan Sexton, not pictured, during the 2023 Rugby World Cup Pool B match between Ireland and Tonga at Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes, France. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
READ HERE: Brian O'Driscoll Was Quick To Serve Ireland Timely Warning After Tonga Hammering
There was chatter about Ireland playing a bigger pack against the Springboks, with Joe McCarthy or Iain Henderson starting and Tadhg Beirne moving to blindside flanker, or opting for a 6-2 split on the bench.
However, not only would it be unlikely to see a change up, but it also be counter intuitive considering Ireland's success over the last two seasons.
The majority of the team is powerfully predictable, with just three main selections still up for debate: Kelleher or Sheehan to start, Crowley or Byrne, and whether Jack Conan will come back into the 23.
We've opted for Kelleher to start given his return to form over the last few weeks. Crowley gets the nod as well, although do not be surprised to see Ross Byrne named.
Question marks remain over Conan's fitness, but the 2021 Lions test starter has been such a key player off the bench that he is difficult to leave out.
The Ireland 23 we want vs South Africa:
- Andrew Porter
- Rónan Kelleher
- Tadhg Furlong
- Tadhg Beirne
- James Ryan
- Peter O'Mahony
- Josh van der Flier
- Caelan Doris
- Jamison Gibson-Park
- Johnny Sexton
- James Lowe
- Bundee Aki
- Garry Ringrose
- Mack Hansen
- Hugo Keenan
Replacements:
Dave Kilcoyne, Dan Sheehan, Finlay Bealham, Iain Henderson, Jack Conan, Conor Murray, Jack Crowley, Robbie Henshaw.
SEE ALSO: CJ Stander Has Nailed His Colours To The Mast Ahead Of Ireland Vs South Africa
