Mack Hansen Ruled Out of Chicago Test Against New Zealand

Ireland wing Mack Hansen will miss the upcoming test against New Zealand in Chicago due to a foot injury, according to the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU). Hansen, a member of the British and Irish Lions, sustained the injury during Connacht’s narrow defeat to the Bulls, which ended 28-27 in the United Rugby Championship last Friday.

The IRFU confirmed that uncapped centre Tom Farrell and Leinster’s Jimmy O’Brien have been added to the squad as Hansen’s replacements. The injury list has grown, with Munster players Edwin Edogbo and Brian Gleeson also ruled out ahead of the fixture set for November 4, 2023.

Head coach Andy Farrell faces further challenges as he prepares the team for the Chicago test. Both Bundee Aki and Robbie Henshaw are undergoing assessments but are expected to travel to the United States. Farrell is already without injured Lions Joe McCarthy and Hugo Keenan, further complicating his selection options.

This match will be crucial for Ireland as they aim to build momentum ahead of the upcoming international season. The absence of key players like Hansen could significantly impact the team’s performance against a formidable All Blacks side.