Joe Schmidt springs big surprises for Ireland’s opening World Cup warm-up

This is your chance lads; you might only get one.

Joe Schmidt has unveiled his starting fifteen to take on Wales in Cardiff, on Saturday, and there are a few intriguing selections. Keith Earls will wear the No.13 jersey and have Ulster's Darren Cave alongside him in midfield. Richardt Strauss starts as hooker and there are returns to the left and right wings, respectively, for Fergus McFadden and Andrew Trimble. Paddy Jackson starts as outhalf. IRELAND XV (to play Wales) https://twitter.com/IrishRugby/status/629275018434867200 Jackson is partnered by Eoin Reddan in the hal-back combo while Felix Jones gets his chance at fullback. A powerful, brawny second row of Donnacha Ryan and Iain Henderson with Jordi Murphy getting a shot at blindside and Tommy O'Donnell openside. [caption id="attachment_34851" align="aligncenter" width="630"] Keith Earls finally gets his chance to impress Schmidt.[/caption] Players not considered due to injuries, and extended rehab, include Cian Healy [neck], Luke Fizgerald, Marty Moore, Sean Cronin [all shoulder] and Rhys Ruddock [arm]. Ireland's first game of their four-match spin, which will take them up to the World Cup, kicks off at 2pm on Saturday [viewable on BBC Wales but fans can tune in to RTE Radio for live commentary]. Schmidt's men have triumphed in 12 of their last 13 Test matches and the New Zealander will be keen to keep as much winning momentum as possible over the next month.