Tadhg Furlong
Position: Prop
Club: Leinster
Age: 26
Arguably the best in the world in his position, the
Leinster man offers everything coaches are looking
for in a modern-day prop. He’s superb at the
set-piece, but with the hands of a centre - a fact
emphasised by his prominence in Ireland’s
attacking play, watch out for Schmidt using the
Wexford-born tighthead in some unusual set
moves.
Furlong is often at the heart of Ireland’s defensive
effort, too, so expect him to play a prominent role if
Schmidt’s side are to advance deep into the
competition.Bundee Aki
Position: Centre
Club: Connacht
Age: 29
Since his international debut in November 2017, the
New Zealand-born Connacht centre has won all of
his 17 caps as a starter, and whether it’s alongside
British and Irish Lion Robbie Henshaw, or in place
of the oft-injured Leinster man, Aki’s contribution to
the Irish cause over the past two years cannot be
understated.
He’s a tough-tackling, straight-running number 12,
not quite of the Jamie Roberts vintage, but not far
away. The 29-year-old will look to get Ireland on
the front foot with his carrying and is often found at
the heart of their defensive effort, regularly topping
tackle charts.
Despite his relative inexperience in the Test arena,
he’s someone Schmidt has come to trust - an
important factor heading into the Rugby World Cup.Brannach Olann is determined to take the knowledge
passed on through generations and use innovation to
ensure a buoyant and sustainable future for the woolRUGBY WORLD CUP - TOP 10