Ireland v New Zealand preview with James Tracy

·36 min·3 clips

Ireland faces the All Blacks in Chicago nine years after their famous upset, with James Tracy previewing the rematch.

This episode of The 42 Rugby Weekly is a preview show for Ireland's test match against New Zealand in Chicago. Host Gavin Casey introduces the rematch, noting it occurs nine years after Ireland's famous victory in the same city. Guest James Tracy, a former Ireland hooker, joins to provide insider analysis. Tracy first recounts how he missed the 2016 game as a traveling reserve when Conor Murray's calf injury led to his replacement. The conversation shifts to team selections, with Tracy highlighting Andy Farrell's return as head coach after his Lions sabbatical. Tracy explains Farrell's coaching style, emphasizing his ability to build player confidence and extract key themes rather than focusing on granular detail. They discuss Stuart McCloskey's unexpected selection at inside center, considering how his form and partnership with Garry Ringrose might challenge New Zealand. The bench's impact is analyzed, with players like Ronan Kelleher and Patty McCarthy noted as potential game-changers. Ryan Baird's role at six is examined, with Tracy describing his unplayable athleticism when on form but noting consistency issues. The scrum battle is deemed likely to be a stalemate, while New Zealand's kicking game and Ireland's backfield defense are identified as critical areas. Tracy details New Zealand's use of 'noodle drills' to distract catchers and predicts they will target Ireland's inexperienced back three. The hosts discuss Beauden Barrett's selection at fly-half for New Zealand and its implications. Tommy O'Brien's debut and defensive capabilities are highlighted. The episode wraps with both hosts viewing the game as a 50-50 contest, with Tracy suggesting a close scoreline decided by moments. Promotional segments for The 42's subscription service are interspersed throughout.

As heard by us

A sharp Ireland-New Zealand preview built around the lineout, Ryan Baird, and Ireland's bench.

The 42 Rugby Weekly frames Ireland's return to Soldierfield against the All Blacks around the small tactical details that can tilt a tight test.

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Why you'd press play

You want to know whether Ireland's bench can tilt a 50-50 rematch at Soldierfield.

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