Six Nations 2026: Doak's revival and Ulster form in Ireland squad

Andy Farrell named a 37-man Ireland squad for the 2026 Six Nations that includes uncapped Nathan Doak and seven players from Ulster, while several regulars are missing due to injury and recent retirements.

Andy Farrell has named a 37-man Ireland squad for the 2026 Six Nations, and the selection has prompted discussion about depth and fresh faces. The squad includes first call-ups and shows a different look up front, while Ulster's recent club form has helped boost their representation. Several established internationals are absent because of injury or retirement, lowering the squad's average experience. Preparations continue ahead of the tournament opener in Paris on 5 February. Notable facts: - Andy Farrell named a 37-man Ireland squad for the 2026 Six Nations. - Nathan Doak is one of two uncapped players named, and Munster's Edwin Edogbo also receives a first call-up. - Seven Ulster players were selected after the province's improved form this season. - Key players unavailable through injury include Andrew Porter, Mack Hansen, Ryan Baird, Robbie Henshaw and Paddy McCarthy. - Recent retirements (Peter O'Mahony, Cian Healy and Conor Murray) and changes in selection have reduced the squad's average caps from 44.1 to 28.4. - Ireland open in Paris on 5 February, then host Italy, travel to England, and finish with home matches against Wales and Scotland. Summary: The squad combines younger players and returning internationals while testing depth because of injuries and retirements. Selection decisions will be assessed during pre-tournament preparations and in the matches that begin in Paris on 5 February, with the coming weeks used to evaluate the wider group ahead of the competition.