Full coverage: irfu

From the collapse of another major club to Leinster’s signing of one of the world’s greatest players, it’s the off-pitch action that’s been making rugby’s latest big hits.

During this 40-60 minute period, Ireland not only struggled to score but also conceded the majority of their points. It's the sole quarter where opposing teams consistently outscore Ireland.

Andy Farrell's selection policy combines current performance with experience, leadership qualities, and the ability to contribute to the team's culture — a formula that has proven successful in maintaining Ireland's position at rugby's summit.

The success story of the women's team offers valuable lessons for addressing the challenges in the men's game. With numerous talented players across the country, both male and female, the key lies in creating opportunities.

Rugby is fascinating because its relationships have been complex and sometimes contradictory. For a game steeped in a certain culture, Irish rugby, as author Liam O’Callaghan shows, has also reinvented itself and found new identities that allowed it to prosper in the professional age.

Advanced analytics and AI technology will become the backbone of rugby strategy as each team looks for an edge over their competitors. From player development to split-second decisions on the pitch, data will drive the game like never before. 

South Africa have the bomb squad, while Andy Farrell must leave his best players on the pitch as long as he can. Is Irish rugby failing to produce adequate talent for the international stage for him to select?

As Leinster and Munster's coaching teams pore over the wealth of data from the season, distinct patterns emerge, revealing areas of strength and those in need of refinement. In many cases, the facts challenge the narrative building about the perceived weaknesses of both teams.

The longer Scotland keep the game close, the more confident they will become as they look to take advantage of Ireland's poorer second half performances.

The former prop is gearing up for a civil action against former clubs Munster and Sale Sharks, the IRFU, World Rugby, and the RFU in what may be a reckoning for the sport.