22-year-old Paddy McCarthy is making a big impact in Andy Farrell’s side.

Boost for Leo Cullen ahead of European showpiece with Bordeaux Bègles on Saturday.

Saturday was a day to forget for Ireland at Soldier Field in Chicago, but it was one that Paddy McCarthy will remember forever.

Caelan Doris returns to captain the side for the first time since he was injured last May

Paddy McCarthy delighted after vindicating Farrell’s decision to select him against Australia  The Irish Times

‘There’s All Black bodies just flying in to you’: Paddy McCarthy on his Ireland Test debut  The Irish Times

"...every time new season rolls around we spend ages on our podcasts trying to work out how the new campaign is going to go, but often one thing we can’t account for in our predictions is new players having a breakthrough season and someone who definitely fits that bill for both Leinster and Ireland this season is a certain Mr Paddy McCarthy - he’s having quite the time of it so far isn’t he Hugo…"

Leinster have confirmed that loosehead prop Paddy McCarthy will miss the rest of the province's season with a foot injury, and the 22-year-old now looks like a doubt for Ireland's Nations Championship campaign this summer.

Jack Boyle makes a timely return for Leinster with Andrew Porter also sidelined.

Paddy McCarthy brought plenty of edge to his first start for Ireland on Saturday night, but he revealed after the game that he’s worked hard to tone down his aggression since becoming a senior player.

Ireland head coach Andy Farrell kept up his tradition in Chicago last Thursday evening when he invited Paddy McCarthy’s family into the team hotel for the debutant’s jersey presentation.

Andy Farrell first noticed Paddy McCarthy when he trained against the Ireland senior team as an U-20 two years ago. When you’ve a full-blown row with Johnny Sexton, you tend to leave an impression.

Paddy McCarthy is set for his debut off the bench, which also includes Caelan Doris.

Paddy McCarthy is match-sharp and ready if called upon for Ireland debut against Japan  The Irish Times

The Leinster man was outstanding in a talented Ireland U20 team in 2023.

Andy Farrell goes for tried and tested with Paddy McCarthy only uncapped call-up  The Irish Times