Concerns have arisen around the availability and fitness of two key Ireland players for the July series against the Springboks in the Republic.
According to The Irish Independent, No 8 Jack Conan will miss the tour due to personal reasons, as his wife is expecting their first child during the series.
In Conan’s absence, Ulster’s Nick Timoney and Munster’s Gavin Coombes are likely candidates to fill the position, with Timoney’s teammate Cormac Izuchukwu potentially receiving his first call-up.
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Additionally, there is uncertainty regarding winger Calvin Nash’s fitness. Nash missed Munster’s Vodacom URC semi-final against the Glasgow Warriors last week due to a leg injury, raising doubts about his ability to participate in the South African tour.
Head coach Andy Farrell is expected to announce the Ireland squad soon, aiming for a strong lineup for the matches in Pretoria on 6 July and Durban on 13 July.
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