Harrison Brewer, the leader of Terenure College’s team during their triumphant season securing the Energia All-Ireland League title, has been chosen as the captain of Ireland Club XV for their upcoming match against Portugal A, staged at Estádio Universitário de Lisboa this Friday, kicking off at 7pm.
There are three players in the squad, Alan Kennedy, Conor Bartley and Cronan Gleeson, who have prior experience playing at this level, having been part of the side back in 2020. Terenure College proves to be the primary source of talent, contributing seven players to the starting XV and another for the bench. Clontarf also contributes to the squad’s make-up, with three of their players picked for the starting XV, including Brewer’s second-row partner, Fionn Gilbert, proficient hooker Dylan Donnellan, and halfback Conor Kelly, who will work closely with UCD’s Michael Moloney.
Terenure’s Peter Sylvester will be joined by George Pringle of Ballynahinch in midfield. The back three is made up of Lansdowne’s Cathal Eddy and Terenure’s Craig Adams and Adam LaGure.
Sean Skehan, the head coach, expressed his anticipation about working with the selected group, having enjoyed recent weeks of training. He also mentioned the challenges of managing training whilst players also commit to their clubs, but noted that it was exciting for many of the players who will be making their debut in an international club game.
The clash will be broadcast live by Portugal Rugby.
Ireland Club XV’s line-up includes notables such as Adam LaGrue, Craig Adams, and George Pringle. Additionally, Peter Sylvester, Cathal Eddy, and Conor Kelly have all earned spots on the team bannered under Terenure College, Lansdowne, and Clontarf, respectively. Jordan Coghlan, Luke Clohessy, and Jack Kelleher also form a powerful trio from Terenure College and Cork Constitution.
Substitutes: Bobby Sheehan from UCD, David Begley representing Young Munster, Cronan Gleeson of Old Wesley, Alan Kennedy also from Young Munster, Bradley Luney from Ballynahinch, Rhys O’Donnell of Instonians, Aran Egan from Terenure College, and Mark Best of Ballynahinch.
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