Jacob Stockdale challenged to prove Test class on Ireland return

Ireland boss Andy Farrell has challenged Jacob Stockdale to prove he still belongs at Test level during Saturday’s clash with Fiji.

Ulster wing Stockdale is poised to win just his fifth cap in four years after Farrell made seven personnel changes to the starting XV which scraped a 22-19 win over Argentina.

Only five men – Brian O’Driscoll, Keith Earls, Tommy Bowe, Denis Hickie and Shane Horgan – have scored more tries for Ireland than Stockdale, who burst on to the scene during the 2018 Six Nations Grand Slam success.

Yet 14 of the 28-year-old’s 19 international scores came in the first 17 of his 37 caps, and he has not represented his country since being overlooked for last year’s Rugby World Cup.

“He deserves it, his form has been great,” Farrell said of the opportunity for Stockdale, whose career has been impacted by knee and ankle issues.

“He’s been back in the fold with us, albeit not getting an opportunity, over the last 12 months and we’ve seen that improvement within his game.

“He’s chomping at the bit and this is his chance to show us what he’s about at this level again.”

Farrell has also handed debuts to Ulster back-rower Cormac Izuchukwu, 24, and Leinster hooker Gus McCarthy, 21, as part of an experimental line-up.

Our line up to face Fiji at Aviva Stadium!