Schmidt makes intriguing Ireland revamp for Scotland test

Scrum-half Kieran Marmion has now been released too, to appear in Connacht’s pre-season battle against Castres this Friday night.

It was Trimble’s first Ireland start in more than a year due to a toe injury sustained in October, and a recurrence of that injury against Wales sparked fears that he will miss the World Cup.

Ulster’s Chris Henry, fully recovered from a mini-stroke eight months ago, will be given his chance to stake a claim for an Ireland Rugby World Cup place with promotion to the starting line-up in Saturday’s warm-up against Scotland in Dublin.

However, Schmidt had encouraging news at Carton House this afternoon after naming his team to face Scotland on Saturday.

In the forwards Jack Conan (23) makes his debut at blindside flanker, while Sean O’Brien starts at No 8 as captain.

“Obviously the guys who are involved this week get a chance at a higher level and therefore that’s an advantage over the players who play for their provinces this and next weekend”.

“It’s around that area, so anything that happens in an area like that, there’s going to be some nervousness about it”, said Schmidt.

“We’re just trying to get game-time for everyone at the moment”.

Schmidt’s men will face off against Vern Cotter’s side at the Aviva Stadium from 5pm on Saturday, August 15.

Ireland’s Kiwi boss said tighthead prop Marty Moore was “probably” ready for action this weekend, but the coaches decided not to take any risks.

IRELAND v Scotland: Simon Zebo; Tommy Bowe, Jared Payne, Gordon D’Arcy, Luke Fitzgerald; Ian Madigan, Isaac Boss; Dave Kicoyne, Sean Cronin, Mike Ross; Dan Tuohy, Devin Toner; Jack Conan, Chris Henry, Sean O’Brien (Capt).

Paul O’Connell moves up to the bench for the first time since last season, Nathan White will hope to earn an overdue cap at some stage of the second-half while the likes of Richardt Strauss and Michael Bent will be equally eager to make an impact.