Ireland will start Ian Madigan in their Number 10 jersey on Thursday, against the Barbarians, with Ulster’s Paddy Jackson in reserve.
The Leinster back has played inside centre most of this season but is back in his preferred outhalf slot for the exhibition game.
There are Ireland debuts, too, for Madigan’s provincial teammates, Tadhg Furlong and Collie O’Shea.
@IrishRugby team to play @Barbarian_FC #rterugby pic.twitter.com/TSKE2wtUyP
— Michael Corcoran (@MichaelC_RTE) May 27, 2015
Joe Schmidt, was joined by his captain, Jamie Heaslip, for the announcement at Thomond Park this afternoon.
Munster and Connacht’s players were not considered due to, respectively, the Guinness PRO12 final and last Sunday’s Champions Cup playoff game.
Earlier today, Robbie Deans announced his BaaBaa’s team to face Ireland.
BARBARIANS XV
Zane Kirchner; Alex Cuthbert, Joe Rokocoko, Wynand Olivier, David Smith; Jimmy Gopperth, Ruan Pienaar; Roberto Tejerizo, Deon Fourie, Adam Jones; Rodrigo Capo Ortega, Konstantin Mikautadze; Shane Jennings, Gerhard Vosloo, Ryu Koliniasi Holani.
