Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt has returned to New Zealand following a family bereavement.
The Kiwi left the Irish training camp at Carton House and will link-up with the squad again in a few days.
Speaking on the matter scrum coach Greg Feek confirmed that in Schmidt’s absence that assistant coach Andy Farrell would be taking control of the squad and also sent his condolences to the head coach.
“Unfortunately, Joe had to go back to New Zealand due to a family bereavement, but he’ll be back in a few days. On behalf of the team, I’d like to pass on our condolences to Joe and his wider family,” he said.
It is unknown whether or not Schmidt will be back on Irish soil before the weekend when Ireland play Italy.
Schmidt’s absence will provide Farrell an opportunity to take full control of training sessions and preparation for this weekend’s clash.
It will be his first taste of holding the reins as he also prepares to take up the role of head coach when Schmidt leaves at the end of the Rugby World Cup.
As mentioned above Ireland face Connor O’Shea’s Italy at the Aviva Stadium this Saturday in the first of four World Cup warm-up games.
They will also take on England and Wales away from home before returning to the Aviva for their final game which is a reverse fixture against the Welsh.
