The Ireland team we want to see at the 2027 Rugby World Cup

It's getting close!

We've picked the side we would like to see, with a few surprises on the bench.

Loosehead prop - Paddy McCarthy

After injuries to Ireland's top-three looseheads - Andrew Porter, Jack Boyle and McCarthy - Jeremy Loughman, Michael Milne and Tom O'Toole got their fair share of unexpected game time during the Six Nations.

While they all left with their reputations enhanced, the pull of a stronger, more experienced McCarthy in 2027 is too strong.

Hooker - Dan Sheehan

There are a number of factors to consider in the Sheehan vs Kelleher debate; the latter is better in the scrum and in the tight, and could provide a good base before unleashing Sheehan off the bench, while the other has been far better at lineout time and is a menace in the loose.

However, Sheehan at his best is a top-ten player in the world and too good not to have in from the beginning.

Tighthead prop - Andrew Porter

A move back to the other side of the scrum is well on the cards for the Leinsterman.

His scrummaging has become a serious issue in the loosehead jersey, and could improve with a change of scenery.

Given the age and talent coming through at No 1, and with Tadhg Furlong and Finlay Bealham coming into the twilight of their careers, it is a move that makes sense.

Second row - Joe McCarthy

There is a world where Edwin Edogbo stays injury free and becomes a serious option by 2027, but we have yet to see enough of him in red or green to justify putting him ahead of Big Joe, who will be entering his prime in a few years.

Second row - Tadhg Beirne

He will be close to turning 36 in Australia, but we know that locks can still play to a world-class level into their mid-thirties, particularly the all-time greats.

After winning Lions player of the tour and producing one of his best ever games against England recently, there is still zero evidence that he is slowing down.

Blindside flanker - Ryan Baird

Judging by his performances in November, the flanker/lock hybrid could be one of the world's top forwards in less than two years' time.

Given who he has replaced in Peter O'Mahony, it has been impressive contingency planning from Andy Farrell and Ireland.

Openside flanker - Josh van der Flier

The closest man to usurping VDF at 7 is captain Caelan Doris, with Jack Conan slotting in at No 8, or potentially Brian Gleeson or Bryn Ward.

Nick Timoney will be in the mix but looks more suited to an impact-sub role at the moment.

Number eight - Caelan Doris

Age and leadership will be on his side in a battle with Conan, who will be 35 at the World Cup.

As we mentioned above, Gleeson and Ward could pose a challenge.

Scrum-half - Jamison Gibson-Park

Like lock, scrummie is a position which welcomes 'old age'.

JGP's game relies on experience, skill, and fitness, which shouldn't deteriorate too much over the next year and a half.

Out-half - Jack Crowley

We were going to leave this spot with a question mark ahead of the Scotland game, but Crowley cemented his place in the side with one of his best performances in green.

Most importantly, he kicked his goals against the Scots, which will most likely be the deciding factor on who will get the ten berth.

Left wing - Mack Hansen

The Aussie wasn't as missed as we thought he'd be during the Six Nations, as Baloucoune and O'Brien stepped up, while Lowe found form against Italy.

However, with his ability to slot into fullback and Lowe's age, he's not far off being a guaranteed starter if fit.

Inside centre - Stuart McCloskey

He's in worlds-best form at the minute, and the only doubt over his World Cup aspirations will be his age.

The Ulsterman will be 35 by the time of the tournament, but hopefully the lack of international mileage on the clock will see him in good stead.

Outside centre - Jamie Osborne

Hugo Keenan will slot right back into 15 when he returns, leaving question marks over Osborne's place in the side.

But his big moments, clever lines, and all-round footballing ability make him hard to leave out.

Right wing - Robert Baloucoune

We knew about his pace, but he surprised most with his aerial skills and defensive prowess over the last few weeks.

With Ireland crying out for pace, Baloucoune has been a godsend.

Fullback - Hugo Keenan

He is the definition of a big-game player, and probably only second to Thomas Ramos in the world.

Replacements:

Rónan Kelleher, Tom O'Toole, Tadhg Furlong, Edwin Edogbo, Brian Gleeson, Nathan Doak, Sam Prendergast, Garry Ringrose.