Ireland v New Zealand: Ronan Kelleher on course to feature in Dublin Test, says Simon Easterby

Kelleher has been out of action since suffering a concussion against Australia last month

Ireland hooker Ronan Kelleher is on course to feature in the upcoming Test match against New Zealand in Dublin on Saturday, according to forwards coach Simon Easterby.

Kelleher has been out of action since suffering a concussion against Australia last month, but he has now returned to training and is expected to be fit for the clash with the All Blacks.

"Ronan is back in training and he's looking good," Easterby said. "He's had a couple of good sessions and he's on course to be available for selection for the New Zealand game."

Kelleher's return is a boost for Ireland, as he is one of the most experienced hookers in the squad.

The 24-year-old has won 17 caps for his country and was part of the team that won the Six Nations Championship in 2022.

Kelleher's return will also provide some much-needed competition for places in the Ireland front row.

Dan Sheehan has been in impressive form in Kelleher's absence and is likely to start against New Zealand.

However, Kelleher's return will give Ireland coach Andy Farrell another option to choose from.

"It's great to have Ronan back," Easterby said. "He's a very experienced player and he's a great leader for us.

"He's also a very good scrummager and he's a very good lineout operator.

"He's a big boost for us and we're looking forward to having him back in the team."