For too long, Irish rugby has been mired in the here and now. The established policy has been: ‘Win what is in front of you and let the future look after itself.’
It has cost us. To the tune of 10 failed World Cup campaigns dating back to the inaugural competition in 1987, during which time Ireland have been unable to win a single knockout match.
There have been plenty of highs in between tournaments, numerous titles won, regular victories over once vastly superior rugby nations and consistent placing at the previously unimaginable height of number one in the world rankings.
But in terms of timing and preparation to hit maximum performance at the World Cup, Ireland have never managed it – coming closest in 2023 when they were beaten by another top-class team (New Zealand) on the day.
Following that disappointment, the decision was taken to keep change to minor tweaks and, while it worked last year in terms of winning another Six Nations title to keep the supporters and IRFU accountants happy, it did little to future-proof against another failure in 2027.
Moreover, despite the noteworthy Test win against South Africa last summer, some issues began emerging during the uncertain performances of the autumn season and have since become more pronounced throughout this year's inconsistent Six Nations tournament.
In recent days, there has been significant introspection, yet no broad agreement has emerged except for an immediate requirement for substantial changes.
The encouraging part is that we have almost two and a half years until the upcoming World Cup, and another bright side is that finally, there’s acknowledgment of the necessity for rejuvenation before it becomes overdue.
Therefore, what are the areas causing concern, and which players might step up in time to provide World Cup solutions for 2027?
There are numerous areas requiring focus, but here are five players to start with:
FIVE TO RECEIVE PRIORITY TREATMENT IN IRELAND
1. NATHAN DOAK
Conor Murray has left the team, and Jamison Gibson-Park is 33, set to turn 35 before the upcoming World Cup, which means Ireland needs alternative choices. One such option could be Craig Casey, the small but talented player from Munster who has gained experience and demonstrated his capability; particularly evident in his quick movements towards the ruck and his swift distribution of the ball.
Two more individuals need to be pinpointed and put through trials immediately, with Doak being the first among them.
He has been around for several seasons now, and one feels that had he been with Leinster, Doak would likely be much farther ahead on the international path.
Rather than focusing elsewhere, he aims to make an impact with inconsistent Ulster, supported by a forward line that hasn’t boasted a high-caliber front row since the 2012 team led by Johann Muller reached the European Cup final.
However, this youngster is quite talented – he possesses the same versatile gameplay that earned his teammate recognition. John Cooney The top No9 in Europe a few years back, despite Ireland's disagreement. Ireland should support Doak's talent and remain loyal to him.
2. BEN MURPHY
Occasionally, talent is so apparent that it demands immediate attention. Richie Murphy’s youngster began showcasing exceptional skills for Connacht early in the season, overwhelming opposing teams with his knack for finding openings and the lightning-fast pace reminiscent of Antoine Dupont.
This opportunity was expected to result in a priority boarding pass for the Ireland team; however, there might have been hesitance due to his limited experience and stature.
All concerns can now be laid to rest following a particularly dull Six Nations campaign for Irish attacking rugby. Murphy possesses precisely the attributes required to ignite a spark.
3. TOM AHERN
Ireland needs to stop dilly-dallying with Ahern. True, the Waterford native’s situation isn’t improving by being part of a Munster team that is far from where it should be. However, given how blatantly talented he is, it falls upon the national management to step in and integrate him into their plans.
Standing at 6 feet 8 inches tall, his agility on the field combined with his inherent talent for football makes Ahern an excellent physical match for what Ireland requires in their defensive lineup. With Peter O'Mahony retiring, this moment presents itself as opportune to fully unleash Ahern’s potential.
4. TOM O’TOOLE
O'Toole has been around for some time but hasn't secured his spot in the national team yet. This situation has not improved due to injuries and suspensions leading up to this year's Six Nations championship.
But he is needed – Tadhg Furlong and Finlay Bealham are both well into their 30s and Furlong’s injury profile is a concern. Tom Clarkson has potential but Ireland need several choices in such a key position as tighthead with O’Toole offering the best physical profile. It’s time for him to kick on.
5. SCOTT PENNY
The most pressing issue facing Ireland management is openside where they have no specialist for a clearly jaded Josh van der Flier.
Nick Timoney and Will Connors have been in and out and the selectors do not appear convinced by John Hodnett.
The closest in style to Van der Flier is Penny, who looks to have a game ideally suited to the step up to international level. The problem is his status as a long-standing fringe player at Leinster where he does not get the game-time his talents merit.
It seems this would be right up David Humphreys' alley, who oversees Irish rugby – Ireland needs Penny to gain playing time, regardless of whether it’s with Leinster or elsewhere.
AND ONE SURPRISE? MICHAEL FOYValueHandling
Those who watched Foy’s exceptional solo performance during CBC Cork’s Munster Senior Schools Cup defeat against PBC last year would recognize that they were seeing something truly extraordinary.
Despite Ireland’s Under-20 teams receiving the Six Nations' last place in this competition, Foy continued to shine under very difficult conditions.
He possesses that characteristic O'Mahony toughness along with an ideal physical build for the back row. Ireland should demonstrate similar confidence in Foy as England has shown towards another young talent from the Under-20 Six Nations, Henry Pollack.