#ShoulderToShoulder: Tour Diary – Day 12, Team Announcement
The adrenalin levels start to climb on a Thursday. The match is approaching and there is a noticeable change in camp. That doesn’t mean that the lads can’t relax but you can feel the energy ramping up as the second and final Test approaches.
Day 12 – Team Announcement
The Ireland squad trained in Universitario Tucumán Rugby Club this morning and as ever the hospitality was second to none.
Back at the hotel and it is time for the team announcement. Joe Schmidt will name the side and speak to the travelling media about his choices.
The press conference takes place in the unusual surroundings of the stage of a theatre that is part of the hotel complex – one of the more unusual locations for a media day.
Naturally for the players not included there is always disappointment, but there is a work ethic in this squad that means the guys who are out are working hard for the guys who are in.
Joe has included three more uncapped players on the bench meaning that everyone who came on tour is likely to get a game.
After that there are media interviews for several of the lads before they get a chance to rest up again.
The Football World Cup kicks off today with Brazil against Croatia, while the US Open tees off as well. There is always a keen interest in whatever other sports are on and many of the lads are happy of the distraction as the countdown begins in earnest.