Andy Farrell made a clear attempt to rejuvenate the Ireland squad during this year’s Six Nations, a process that is likely to continue as the team prepares for next year’s Rugby World Cup in Australia.

A refresh was badly needed, with the Ireland squad having aged somewhat in recent seasons. While that will still be a concern, the group looks in a better place on the back of a strong finish to the Six Nations.

It now looks as though Farrell will have another option to call upon as we head into 2027.

READ ALSO: ‘You Love Throwing The Boot Into Us’: Leo Cullen Tore Into Irish Media After Nervy Leinster Win

READ ALSO: How To Get Tickets To Leinster’s Champions Cup Final In Bilbao

Farrell To Have New Ireland Squad Option After Connacht News

Recommended

Connacht announced this afternoon that Shamus Hurley-Langton has signed a new deal with the province, extending his stay in Galway until at least the end of next season.

Speaking to the club website, Stuart Lancaster said the deal was a big boost for the club:

Shamus’s new deal is another massive boost for everyone in the club. I’ve got to know Shamus well this season and really enjoy coaching him. I feel there is still even more to come from him, and these last few games have shown just how good a player he already is.

His dynamism on the ball, his relentless work rate at the breakdown is top class and he will be another huge asset for us as we head into next season.

Interestingly, this news could also have repercussions for Andy Farrell and Ireland.

The New Zealander first joined Connacht in 2022, now coming up to four years ago. World Rugby eligibility laws allow players to line out for a new nation after five years of residency, meaning Hurley-Langton would be eligible to play for Ireland by the autumn of 2027.

Ireland previously benefitted greatly from the residency rule, with current internationals James Lowe, Bundee Aki, and Jamison Gibson-Park qualifying via that route. However, World Rugby upping the number of years from three to five has led to it becoming more difficult to bring in players in this manner.

Shamus Hurley-Langton could be an exception, with the backrower impressing during his spell in Connacht. Still aged just 26, he has a number of years in top level rugby ahead of him.

He is a name to keep an eye on as Ireland gear up for the Rugby World Cup next year.

SEE ALSO: Jim Hamilton Sees Two Ominous Warning Signs For Leinster From Semi-Final Win