Ireland v Fiji: Match Details, Kick-Off, and Key Information
Ireland’s victory over Argentina at the Aviva Stadium on Friday provided a boost following their defeat to the All Blacks a week earlier. While it was an improved showing, the Six Nations champions have yet to reach peak form.
Facing Fiji on Saturday afternoon, head coach Andy Farrell must find a balance between maintaining team cohesion and giving playing time to his squad amid a demanding November schedule.
Here’s everything you need to know about Ireland v Fiji.
Kick-Off Time The match is scheduled for 15:10 GMT at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday.
How to Follow on the BBC Tune into live text commentary on Saturday afternoon for real-time updates. Audio coverage is available via BBC Sounds or BBC Radio Ulster, and can also be accessed on the BBC Sport website and app.
For comprehensive build-up and analysis, visit the Irish Rugby page.
Team Announcements Ireland’s head coach Andy Farrell will reveal his team on Thursday at 14:00 GMT. Fiji is also set to announce their line-up on Thursday.
Match Officials Scottish referee Hollie Davidson will officiate the game, supported by assistant referees Sam Grove-White (Scotland) and Matthew Carley (England). Mike Adamson of Scotland will serve as the television match official (TMO).
Team News Tadhg Furlong has not played for Ireland this autumn due to a hamstring injury sustained during training in Portugal. The 32-year-old attended Ireland’s win over Argentina but did not take part beyond observing the warm-up. With Tom O’Toole also out, Thomas Clarkson made his debut from the bench.
Ireland’s 22-19 victory over Argentina came without significant new injuries, although Ryan Baird exited after coming on as a second-half substitute. Fiji, meanwhile, will be without Semi Radradra, who is suspended after being red-carded in their match against Wales.
Form Overview Ireland returned to winning form against Argentina after a tough loss to the All Blacks, marking three losses in their last five Tests. Their win over the Pumas showed signs of improvement but was marred by a scoreless second half.
Fiji has already played three matches this month, bouncing back from a heavy loss to Scotland with a win over Wales and a comeback 33-19 victory over Spain, overturning a 19-7 deficit with four late tries.
Previous Encounters Ireland’s last match against Fiji was a 35-17 victory in November 2022. Ireland holds a perfect record, winning all five Test matches against Fiji, all played in Dublin. The first official Test was in 1995, with Ireland winning 44-8. On average, Ireland scores over 40 points per game against Fiji, though their 23-20 win in 2017 was a close call.
Farrell’s Upcoming Lions Role Andy Farrell is set to coach the British and Irish Lions in Australia next summer, with the IRFU’s 150th anniversary ensuring Ireland has four autumn Tests instead of the usual three. Farrell’s 11-month break from leading the Irish team puts extra importance on his remaining selections this November. Squad rotation is expected for the Fiji match, ahead of facing Australia in Dublin on 30 November, offering players one last chance to make an impression.