Timoney can seize moment as Farrell opts for continuity over experimentation

The 31-year-old Ulster back-rower has developed into one of the head coach’s most dependable operators having featured in all eight of Ireland’s matchday Test squads this year

Ireland have named Nick Timoney at number eight and Mack Hansen at full-back in a much-changed side for Saturday's Nations Championship clash with Fiji. Pic: Niall Carson/Press Association.

Fri, 13 Nov, 2026 - 01:00

Simon Lewis

Andy Farrell has handed Nick Timoney another opportunity to further his importance to Ireland with his selection at No.8 to face Fiji at Aviva Stadium on Saturday night.

The 31-year-old Ulster back-rower has developed into one of the head coach’s most dependable operators having featured in all eight of Ireland’s matchday Test squads this year. Last Friday’s run at openside flanker in the 42-12 win over Argentina was his third start of 2026, selected ahead of regular incumbent Josh van der Flier, though the knee injury to starting No.8 Sean Jansen saw Timoney switch to the base of the scrum for the second half.