O'Connell confirmed as interim coach for Ireland's summer Tests

Paul O'Connell has been appointed as Ireland's interim head coach for the upcoming summer Tests against Georgia and Portugal, following Simon Easterby's selection for the British and Irish Lions coaching team. O'Connell, who has a notable history with the Irish national team, including playing in three Lions tours, will lead the squad during the matches scheduled for July 5 and July 12. The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) performance director David Humphreys expressed confidence in the abilities of Easterby, alongside scrum coach John Fogarty and backs coach Andrew Goodman, who will also join the Lions. The remaining coaching staff for Ireland's summer tour will be announced next week, with expectations for a team potentially understrength due to Lions selections. This transition provides an opportunity for O'Connell and his assistant coaches to gain valuable experience amid significant changes in the coaching lineup. The venues and kickoff times for the matches are yet to be confirmed.