Full coverage: irfu

Leinster are still sore about losing Joey Carbery to Munster eight years ago, but behind that individual story is a wider and ongoing issue about talent circulation – and the lack of it.

Ireland is one of the biggest exporters of football supporters in Europe, yet its domestic clubs struggle financially. The problem is the structure of the game itself.

Glass half full or half empty? Wrong question. The glass is fine. It's the quality of the wine we should be worried about.

Ireland's season has exposed cracks in depth, cohesion and succession planning, but Andy Farrell's side arrives at Eden Park with one final chance to prove those problems are fixable rather than fundamental.

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.