Ireland call-up for Australian-born wing Mack Hansen

Ireland have called up Australian-born wing Mack Hansen to their squad for the Autumn Nations Series following a run of fine form for Connacht.

Former Brumbies finisher Hansen will train with the squad this week as the group focuses in on Saturday’s game against Japan at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

Hansen, who’s scored four tries in five games this season, represented his native country at U20 level but is eligible for Ireland as his mother hails from Cork.

In other news from Ireland, British and Irish Lions centre Robbie Henshaw will continue his rehabilitation programme under the guidance of the medical team.

Meanwhile, Thomas Ahern (Munster) and Jamie Osbourne (Leinster) have both returned to their respective provinces, having trained with the squad last week.

Japan beat Ireland at 2019 Rugby World Cup

Saturday’s Test at the Aviva Stadium against the Brave Blossoms is the tenth meeting between the two nations. Ireland have won nine of the contests with Japan claiming the spoils with a deserved 19-12 victory in Shizuoka at the Rugby World Cup in 2019.

Following the match against Japan, Andy Farrell’s men will prepare for games against New Zealand (Saturday, November 13) and Argentina (Sunday, November 21).

Ireland squad for Autumn Nations Series

Backs: Bundee Aki, Robert Baloucoune, Harry Byrne, Joey Carbery, Craig Casey, Andrew Conway, Keith Earls, Ciaran Frawley, Jamison Gibson-Park, Mack Hansen, James Hume, Hugo Keenan, Jordan Larmour, James Lowe, Stuart McCloskey, Conor Murray, Garry Ringrose, Johnny Sexton (c), Simon Zebo

Forwards: Ryan Baird, Finlay Bealham, Tadhg Beirne, Jack Conan, Gavin Coombes, Ultan Dillane, Caelan Doris, Tadhg Furlong, Cian Healy, Iain Henderson, Rob Herring, Ronan Kelleher, Dave Kilcoyne, Peter O’Mahony, Tom O’Toole, Andrew Porter, James Ryan, Dan Sheehan, Nick Timoney, Josh van der Flier