Former captain Peter O’Mahony has joined the Ireland squad in the buildup to Friday’s showdown with New Zealand in Dublin, following his successful comeback from injury.
The veteran flanker, sidelined since early October with a hamstring strain, proved his fitness during a 40-minute stint for Munster against the All Blacks XV last week.
Ireland backs coach Andrew Goodman expressed confidence in the 35-year-old’s readiness: “Peter’s a pretty experienced man. I’m sure if he gets called upon he’ll be ready to go. It’s good to have him over and adding to the group.”
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O’Mahony’s return coincides with key setbacks for the All Blacks, who will be without flyhalf Beauden Barrett and hooker Codie Taylor due to concussion protocols following the Twickenham Test.
All Blacks coach Scott Robertson acknowledged the impact: “Codie’s a world class hooker – among the best two or three in the world. They’ll be missed, but they’ll still be around giving their wisdom.”
Photo: BackpagePix
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
