Advertisement

In pics: Smiles all round as Irish squad departs for Rugby World Cup

Joe Schmidt’s side left for Japan today.

THERE WAS LOTS of excitement at Dublin airport today, as the Irish rugby team departed for the Rugby World Cup in Japan.

Joe Schmidt’s side, who have been drawn in Pool A, will get their campaign underway against Scotland in Yokohama City on Sunday 22 September.

Tournament hosts Japan await Ireland in the next game, before rounding off the pool stage with ties against Russia and Samoa. 

There were plenty of smiles when gathered in the capital for the big journey, as they look to get past the quarter-final stage for the first time.

All aboard

the-ireland-team-before-departing-for-japan Tommy Dickson / INPHO Tommy Dickson / INPHO / INPHO

Bundee Aki and Robbie Henshaw share a little cuddle before take-off

the-ireland-team-before-departing-for-japan Tommy Dickson / INPHO Tommy Dickson / INPHO / INPHO

Aye aye captain

thomas-jordan-with-rory-best Billy Stickland / INPHO Billy Stickland / INPHO / INPHO

Some of the Aer Lingus staff with Ireland’s players

ireland-rugby-team-depart-for-japan-with-official-airline-partner-aer-lingus Billy Stickland / INPHO Billy Stickland / INPHO / INPHO

Dara McMahon, Director of Marketing Aer Lingus, speaks to the team before departure

dara-mcmahon-joey-carbery-jack-conan-and-josh-van-der-flier Billy Stickland / INPHO Billy Stickland / INPHO / INPHO

A parting gift from the Ireland team

dara-mcmahon-with-rory-best Billy Stickland / INPHO Billy Stickland / INPHO / INPHO

The42 is on Instagram! Tap the button below on your phone to follow us!

Close
15 Comments
This is YOUR comments community. Stay civil, stay constructive, stay on topic. Please familiarise yourself with our comments policy here before taking part.
Leave a Comment
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.

    Leave a commentcancel