Ireland assistant coach Andrew Goodman has confirmed that Rob Baloucoune and Jeremy Loughman are ready for selection ahead of Saturday’s Nations Championship showdown with New Zealand in Auckland. Both players had been sidelined due to injuries sustained earlier in the tour.
Wing Rob Baloucoune missed the start of the competition after picking up a hamstring injury prior to the opening game against Australia. Meanwhile, Munster prop Jeremy Loughman was forced to sit out the victory over Japan after suffering a head injury during the second half of the match against the Wallabies. Both have now rejoined the full 36-man training group.
Goodman expressed satisfaction with the squad’s physical state as they prepare for the challenge of facing the All Blacks at Eden Park. The coaching staff faces difficult selection decisions, particularly given the strong performances of players like Jimmy O’Brien, who filled in on the wing during Baloucoune’s absence.
Ireland is looking to achieve a historic result by snapping New Zealand’s 52-game unbeaten streak at the iconic venue, which dates back to 1994. While the team acknowledges the stadium’s significance, Goodman noted that the focus remains on daily preparation and mentality rather than the external narrative surrounding the All Blacks’ record.
