Boss Farrell eyes 'reset' as Ireland and All Blacks ready for 'Battle of Chicago'

CHICAGO The Irish are facing the All Blacks on US soil nine years after scoring their first every victory over New Zealand in a memorable 40-29 win over the Kiwis at the same venue in 2016

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Ireland coach Andy Farrell says his team's clash with New Zealand in Chicago on Saturday marks the start of the long buildup to the 2027 World Cup as he returns to the helm of the Six Nations giants.

Farrell, who stepped away from Ireland duties in late 2024 to oversee the British & Irish Lions' victorious tour of Australia earlier this year, said Saturday's Test at Soldier Field is an opportunity to “reassess” his squad with the World Cup just two years away.

The Irish are facing the All Blacks on US soil nine years after scoring their first every victory over New Zealand in a memorable 40-29 win over the Kiwis at the same venue in 2016.

That win -- the first in III years of trying -- proved to be a watershed moment in the history of Irish rugby, infusing the squad with the belief in their ability to go toe-to-toe with the best side in the world.

Since then Ireland have beaten the All Blacks on four further occasions, notably clinching a 2-1 series victory in New Zealand in 2022.