Conor Murray will relish competition for scrum-half position, says Ireland head coach Andy Farrell

Murray has been the long-standing first choice for his country’s number nine jersey, including starting each of the five Guinness Six Nations fixtures following Farrell’s appointment.

New Zealand-born Gibson-Park will have an opportunity to stake his claim for that role tomorrow when he makes his first Test start in the opening match of the inaugural Autumn Nations Cup.

Farrell is eager to give chances to peripheral members of his 34-man squad and feels Murray – who will begin on the bench in Dublin – will appreciate being put under pressure.

“That’s what we’re all hoping for and, do you know what, deep down I am sure that Conor is as well,” said Farrell.

“We’ve got good people here and they warrant competition – whether they admit it or not – because that will make them better players and that’s how we move forward as a group.”

Munster player Murray saw off a challenge from the in-form John Cooney earlier in the year to continue his long-term half-back partnership with veteran captain Johnny Sexton.

Farrell added: “He can play very quickly but at the same time, without contradicting myself, he can play very calmly as well.

“His kicking and his vision, his decision-making is pretty good.”

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