Ireland’s chances of defeating New Zealand in Chicago handed double boost

Right now, we're clinging onto every positive sign we get.

Sean O'Brien and Robbie Henshaw are on course for October returns and, all going well, Ireland's November Tests. Throw into the mix that Johnny Sexton and Peter O'Mahony are due back for Round 4 [September 26, 27] and Joe Schmidt should have some of his big hitters back. Leinster head coach Leo Cullen offered an update that is positive in terms of Champions Cup returns, for his side, but that may ultimately benefit the national side more. Cullen told reporters:

"Robbie and Sean, post their surgeries - Robbie had his operation post the tour [to South Africa] - they’re making good progress. You’re probably looking at five to six weeks with Robbie. "Seanie had his surgery at the end of the last season. It was probably the most major of the surgeries out of the three of them. He’s probably on a similar timeline to Robbie at the moment."

Leinster should be able to feature Ireland internationals Cian Healy, Mike McCarthy and Rob Kearney in their Guinness PRO12 opener against Benetton Treviso. All three made pre-season outings for the province. New Zealand, who have never lost a Test match to Ireland, are currently rumbling along in The Rugby Championship. They defeated Australia in Wellington, last weekend, to retain the Bledisloe Cup for the 14th successive year. The new GAA Hour football podcast is here. Listen to Colm Parkinson, Senan Connell, and Barry Cahill dissect a classic between Dublin and Kerry. Subscribe here on iTunes.