Opening his international campaign with a convincing bonus-point win, Tadhg Beirne insists Ireland must use their recent victory against Argentina as a vital foundation for continued growth rather than resting on past achievements.
Andy Farrell’s side launched their autumn campaign with a 42-12 victory over Argentina at the Aviva Stadium, establishing a clear marker for the weeks ahead. Stand-in captain Dan Sheehan deputised for regular skipper Caelan Doris against the Pumas but is unavailable for the upcoming fixture due to concussion protocols.
Beirne will step into the captaincy role for Saturday’s Nations Championship clash against Fiji in Dublin, marking the first time he will lead his country at the Aviva Stadium. The 34-year-old Munster lock, who is set to win his 75th cap, previously captained Ireland to a victory over Japan during a summer tour in Australia.
“It’s particularly special doing it at the Aviva, at home,” Beirne told RTÉ on Friday. “I did have family over in Australia during the summer, but I’ll have my family here, extended family and especially with this group, getting to lead those boys out is very cool and very special.”
“My wife and daughter will be there, mum and dad will definitely be there, my sister – everyone who’s in the country will be there, which is class,” Beirne added.
Fiji have never defeated Ireland in international competition, having suffered a 52-17 defeat on their last visit to Dublin in 2024. Despite the historical record, head coach Farrell has introduced seven personnel changes and two positional switches to keep the squad sharp.
“The big focus for us is to continue building on our performance, particularly from last week,” Beirne said regarding the team’s ongoing preparation. “We laid down a foundation of how we want to play, but we’re certainly not satisfied with that.”
Ireland have currently secured three wins from four matches in the Nations Championship and face world champions South Africa later in the month before the competition concludes with finals weekend at Twickenham.
Farrell acknowledged the need to balance immediate objectives with future challenges as the autumn series progresses through November.
“There’s always one eye on what’s coming,” Farrell said. “That’s my job, to have that in mind. But 100 per cent, the whole focus has just been about Fiji, and that’s what matters about us improving our performance this week.”
“It’s full steam ahead as far as Fiji is concerned, because we know if you’re not at your best with a team like the quality of Fiji, they can beat you if you’re slightly off,” Farrell added.
Farrell has recalled Ronan Kelleher, James Ryan, and Josh van der Flier to the forward pack, while Jamison Gibson-Park, Bundee Aki, Jamie Osborne, and Tommy O’Brien return to feature in the backline for Saturday’s 8:10 pm fixture.
Earlier coverage: Beirne Captains Ireland Against Fiji
