Sexton to coach Ireland XV as 2026/27 schedule revealed

Ulster’s Mark Sexton has been appointed as head coach for Ireland XV’s three confirmed fixtures in 2026/27.

First up, Ireland’s second team will face Fiji A at Virgin Media Park in Cork on Friday, 20 November, before taking on Chile at Queen’s University in Belfast on Friday, 12 February.

Ireland XV will then take to the road to play England A at Sandy Park in Exeter on Saturday, 20 February during the Six Nations window.

Sexton, the Ulster attack coach, will be supported by assistants Jimmy Duffy, Jared Payne and Seamus Toomey.

Commenting on the fixture announcement, IRFU Performance Director David Humphreys said: “The Ireland XV programme is an important part of our player development pathway, providing players of national interest with the opportunity to experience the standards, expectations and environment of the senior international set-up.

“These fixtures help bridge the gap between provincial rugby and the senior international squad, allowing players to test themselves against quality opposition while gaining valuable experience in a national team environment. They also give us an opportunity to assess players, build relationships and develop greater depth across the player pool.

“Matches such as the upcoming one against Fiji ‘A’ in Cork are a valuable part of that process, challenging players in different ways and helping to ensure we continue to develop a strong group of players capable of competing in green at international level.”

November’s clash against Fiji ‘A’ will be part of a double-header at Virgin Media Park, with Ireland U20s set to go head-to-head with Scotland in a friendly ahead of the main event.