Wed Sep 18 00:47:00 UTC 2024: ## Emerging Ireland Announces Squad for South Africa Tour, Kendellen Named Captain

**Bloemfontein, South Africa** – Head coach Simon Easterby has announced a 33-player squad for the Emerging Ireland tour to South Africa, taking place from September 28th to October 9th. The team will assemble at the IRFU High Performance Centre next week before departing for Bloemfontein.

Munster’s Alex Kendellen, a former captain of the Ireland U20 team, will lead the side on the tour. The squad includes two players who were part of the senior Irish team’s recent summer tour to South Africa – Sam Prendergast and Cormac Izuchukwu – as well as former Ireland U20 captains Gus McCarthy and Evan O’Connell.

Izuchukwu, a forward for Ulster, is one of two players set to embark on their second Emerging Ireland Tour, joined by Leinster back row James Culhane.

Emerging Ireland will face three tough opponents in their tour: the Pumas (October 2nd), Western Force (October 6th), and the defending Currie Cup champions, the Cheetahs (October 9th). All matches will be played at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.

The squad is a mix of experience and emerging talent, with a strong representation from various clubs and provinces across Ireland. This tour will provide a valuable opportunity for these players to test themselves against international opposition and further develop their skills.

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