Dan Sheehan to captain Ireland against Wales in Six Nations clash

Ireland’s unbeaten run faces a test as Sheehan leads the team in Cardiff.

Dan Sheehan speaks during an Ireland rugby media conference at the IRFU High Performance Centre in Dublin, Ireland, on February 5, 2025. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

By Yuni Utomo and Randy Ahmad

Dan Sheehan will lead Ireland against Wales in the third round of the Six Nations on Saturday, stepping in for regular captain Caelan Doris, who is sidelined with a knee injury. The match in Cardiff will be a key test for Ireland, the only unbeaten team in this year’s tournament.

Ireland head coach Simon Easterby confirmed several changes to the squad, with injuries forcing adjustments in key positions. Hooker Ronan Kelleher (neck) and prop Tadhg Furlong (calf) join Doris on the sidelines, with Furlong yet to feature in this year’s Six Nations after also missing the November Tests due to a torn hamstring.

Ireland have started their campaign strongly, securing a 32-18 win over Scotland and a 27-22 victory against England. With a perfect record so far, they will look to maintain their momentum against a re-energized Welsh side playing under a new coaching setup.

Sheehan steps up as captain for the first time

Sheehan’s appointment as captain highlights his leadership role within the squad. Easterby expressed confidence in the Leinster hooker, emphasizing his influence both on and off the pitch.

"Dan Sheehan's selection as captain is recognition of his high standing within the squad," said Easterby. "I have no doubt that he will relish the opportunity to lead Ireland for the first time."

Jack Conan will replace Doris at No. 8, forming a back-row trio with Josh van der Flier and Peter O’Mahony. Tadhg Beirne and Joe McCarthy will partner in the second row, while Thomas Clarkson, making his first start, joins Sheehan and Andrew Porter in the front row.

New-look half-back partnership and key selections

Jamison Gibson-Park will start at scrum-half, linking up with Sam Prendergast at fly-half. The experienced Bundee Aki has been named on the bench, with Garry Ringrose and Robbie Henshaw forming the midfield pairing.

In the back three, Jamie Osborne starts at full-back, while James Lowe and Mack Hansen take their usual spots on the wings.

The replacements bench includes five forwards: Gus McCarthy, uncapped prop Jack Boyle, Finlay Bealham, James Ryan, and Cian Prendergast. Aki will be joined by veteran scrum-half Conor Murray and Jack Crowley as the backline options.

Easterby expects a tough challenge in Cardiff

Easterby acknowledged the difficulty of facing Wales in Cardiff, especially with a passionate home crowd and a team eager to impress under new leadership.

"Playing Wales in Cardiff is one of the great tests, and we know the challenge that awaits us," said Easterby. "With a new coaching setup in place, Wales will be re-energized and determined to impress in front of a vocal home support."

He also pointed out the strong Irish presence expected in the stands, adding to what he predicts will be an electric atmosphere.

"There will also be a huge Irish travelling support, which, when added to the closed roof and the great respect and rivalry between the two nations, will create a fantastic atmosphere," he said.

Ireland’s performance so far has cemented them as favorites for the Six Nations title, but facing Wales away from home presents a new test. With Sheehan leading the team, Ireland will look to extend their winning run and stay on course for tournament glory.