Nick Timoney, Craig Casey, and Sean Jansen are set to start for Ireland against Argentina in the Nations Championship this Friday night at Aviva Stadium. With captain Caelan Doris and two-tour British and Irish Lion Jack Conan sidelined due to injuries, Jansen, from Connacht, fills in at number eight, a role anticipated by head coach Andy Farrell.

Jansen made a notable debut for Ireland, scoring against Japan in July, followed by a brief appearance against the All Blacks. In contrast, the selections of Casey and Timoney raised eyebrows. Jamison Gibson-Park, a key player for Ireland, has been recovering from a groin injury and will start on the bench, allowing Casey to partner with fly-half Sam Prendergast, who has recently returned from a wrist injury.

Timoney, now 31, has faced challenges breaking into the team despite good form, and his start against Argentina marks his ninth consecutive Test, with most prior appearances from the bench. He takes the spot of former World Rugby player of the year Josh van der Flier.

In the midfield, Robbie Henshaw steps in for the injured Garry Ringrose, teaming up with Stuart McCloskey. Mack Hansen, Andrew Porter, and Ryan Baird return to the starting lineup after missing significant time due to injuries.

Dan Sheehan captains the side in Doris' absence, while Tadhg Furlong starts after being cleared of disciplinary issues. Tadhg Beirne and Joe McCarthy join as starting locks, with James Ryan on the bench alongside Gibson-Park and van der Flier.

On the other side, Argentina’s coach Felipe Contepomi has made 12 changes following their draw with Australia in September, aiming for a historic away win over Ireland. Juan Cruz Mallia returns for his first cap since November 2025 after recovering from injury.