Maori All Blacks v Ireland: All you need to know

The five-game marathon starts in Hamilton.

If Ireland are to break new ground at next year's Rugby World Cup, this summer's tour of New Zealand will have a big say in it.

With five games in the next 17 days, Andy Farrell's side are set for a physically and mentally draining tour, with three Tests against New Zealand, and two midweek fixtures against the Maori All Blacks, the first of which is tomorrow morning in Hamilton.

It's 10 years since Ireland last played the Maoris, on that occasion Declan Kidney's side went down 31-28 in Rotorua, Johnny Sexton kicking 23 points but crucially missing his ninth and final shot at goal which could have snatched a draw.

That night, it was a blend of youth and experience for Ireland, who were playing their second game of three across New Zealand and Australia, going on to lose all three.

It's a different story this time for Ireland, who are unleashing the youngsters on the FMG Stadium, all but three of the starting team having played six or fewer times for Ireland.

While Test caps won't be handed out, the experience gained for Ireland will be invaluable as they look to develop their wider squad ahead of the World Cup next year.

TV

Sky Sports Action will be showing live coverage from FMG Stadium, getting under way at 7.55am.

RADIO

Listen to live updates from Michael Corcoran on Morning Ireland on RTÉ Radio 1.

ONLINE

RTE.ie/sport and the RTÉ News app will have have a live blog of the game, as well as a match report and post match reaction throughout Wednesday.

WEATHER

With New Zealand in the middle of winter, conditions will be difficult in Hamilton, with plenty of rain forecast throughout Wednesday. However, temperatures should be mild enough, with a forecast of around 10-12C

Listen to the RTÉ Rugby