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Cian Healy starts for Leinster in clash with Glasgow Warriors

The Leinster Rugby team to face Glasgow Warriors in Round 5 of the United Rugby Championship at Scotstoun Stadium tomorrow has been named by Leo Cullen (KO 7.35 pm – live on TG4, Premier Sports and URC TV).

This is the last game of the five-game block in the URC before a break for the Autumn Internationals.

Cian Healy starts at loosehead this week alongside Ronan Kelleher and Tadhg Furlong in the front row.

Ross Molony and Ryan Baird round out the front five in the second row, with Caelan Doris, Dan Leavy and Jack Conan the back row trio.

Luke McGrath captains the side from scrum-half with Ross Byrne playing alongside him in the number 10 shirt.

Hugo Keenan, Adam Byrne and James Lowe are the back three selected by Cullen with recent Ireland call-up Ciarán Frawley and Garry Ringrose the centre partnership.

Another recent national call-up Dan Sheehan resides on the bench alongside the likes of Josh Van Der Flier and Devin Toner.

Leinster Team v Glasgow Warriors

15. Hugo Keenan (33)
14. Adam Byrne (58)
13. Garry Ringrose (89)
12. Ciarán Frawley (39)
11. James Lowe (54)
10. Ross Byrne (107)
9. Luke McGrath (154) CAPTAIN

1. Cian Healy (235)
2. Rónan Kelleher (27)
3. Tadhg Furlong (115)
4. Ross Molony (120)
5. Ryan Baird (31)
6. Caelan Doris (42)
7. Dan Leavy (74)
8. Jack Conan (106)

Replacements:

16. Dan Sheehan (16)
17. Ed Byrne (73)
18. Michael Ala’alatoa (4)
19. Devin Toner (267)
20. Rhys Ruddock (192)
21. Jamison Gibson-Park (104)
22. Jamie Osborne (8)
23. Josh van der Flier (101)

Sailors to watch at the Irish Youth National Championships

Ones to watch at the Investwise Irish Sailing Youth Nationals 2021 – over 100 young sailors ready to compete after a gap of two years

After a gap of two years, 135 young sailors are signed up and raring to go at the Investwise Irish Sailing Youth National Championships. The event is unique – not only is it the biggest youth event held in Ireland, it’s the only time that different youth classes come together to compete, gain valuable experience on the water, hear from Irish Sailing coaches, and, along with their families, learn more about the Irish Sailing Performance Pathway. There are five classes (types of boat) taking part from all across the country and we’ve outlined some of the names to watch below.

In the ILCA 6 (Laser Radials) there are some well known names including Eve McMahon (Howth YC) who’s fresh from a successful summer of overseas competing where she won the ILCA 6 Youth World Championships in Italy in July, and a previous winner at the Youth Nationals. She’s joined by three of the Irish Sailing Laser Radial Academy athletes: Ellie Cunnane (Tralee Bay SC) and local sailors Jonathan O’Shaughnessy and Michael Crosbie (both RCYC). Rocco Wright (Howth YC) is a new entry coming up from ILCA4 (Laser 4.7s) and one to watch.

The small 420 fleet will have sailors who know each other well, and three clubs dominating: Lough Ree Yacht Club, Waterford Harbour Sailing Club, and Malahide Yacht Club.

Female helms lead the way in the 29er class with a 60/40 girl/boy ratio. Three of them are representing Dun Laoghaire’s Royal St George YC: Emily Riordan, Rachel Flood and Clementine van Steenberge.  Local Cork helm James Dwyer had a top 15 finish at the 29er World Championships in Spain in September. This is the first time the 29ers will compete at the Youth Nationals, and the class are in discussions with Irish Sailing about becoming a full Performance Pathway class.

ILCA4 (Laser 4.7s) sees a lot of new entries in the class, with many of the top competitors moving on from the ILCA 4s up to the bigger ILCA 6 or another dinghy. Ones to watch are Sienna Wright (Howth YC) and Hannah Dadley-Young (Ballyholme YC) along with Daniel Palmer (Ballyholme YC) who’s moved up from the Topper class, along with Spaniard Mauro G Regueral Noguerol (RCYC).

Finally in the Toppers, there is a large fleet from across the country with Bobby Driscoll from the North (Royal North of Ireland YC) and Rian Collins from the South (Royal Cork YC) sure to feature. With many sailors finishing the season strongly, Ciara McMahon (Malahide YC), Riona McMorrow Moriarty (Tralee Bay SC) and Dan O’Leary (Royal Cork YC) are also in the mix.

The Investwise Irish Sailing Youth National Championships take place 28-31 October 2021 at the Royal Cork Yacht Club, Crosshaven, Co Cork.

 

Young sailors from across Ireland will compete across four different classes: 420, Topper, ILCA 4 (Laser 4.7) and ILCA 6 (Laser Radial). These are the classes that have been identified as the best to facilitate progression through the Irish Sailing Performance Pathway. The remaining four classes will be joined for the first time by the 29er class.

David Quinn, MD, Investwise Financial Planning, commented: “We are delighted to support this wonderful event for young sailors.  Sailing teaches important life skills such as awareness, responsibility, patience and respect, as well as building friendships that last a lifetime. We’re delighted that our youth sailors have the opportunity to get back out on the water to compete again at their National Championships after a break of two years.  It promises to be a superb event in Cork over the mid-term break and I look forward to meeting everyone there.”

Ireland v Russia – Preview, Team News, Where To Watch

The Ireland Men’s national hockey team will take on Russia in their first game of the European qualifier for the 2023 Men’s FIH Hockey World Cup.

The qualification tournament is being played at the Sport Wales National Centre in Cardiff and features eight teams looking for the final European spot at the 2023 World Cup.

The national team need to win their first two games to land a place at the 2023 showpiece event to be played in India.

Ireland will be looking to reach a second successive World Cup and their fourth overall after appearing at their first in 28 years in 2018.

They come into the competition as the second-highest ranked side, one place behind France in 14th.

Their opponents, Russia, are yet to qualify for the World Cup, with this qualification tournament acting as a golden ticket for the second-lowest ranked team out of the eight competing.

If Ireland beat Russia, they will face either Wales or Italy on Saturday, October 23 for a place at the World Cup.

Mark Tumilty’s side qualified for the eight-team tournament after finishing third at the 2021 Men’s EuroHockey Championship II in Poland back in August.

Since then, Olympian Conor Harte has returned to the side while Luke Madeley, Jamie Carr and Lee Cole are also available having missed out on playing time at the Euros when they were deemed close contacts in the lead-up to the event.

11 of the team that saw game time in Poland have been called up for the qualifiers at the end of the month.

Russia earned their spot after qualifying for the 2021 Men’s EuroHockey Championship, at which they finished last after conceding 33 goals in six games.

Ireland will head into the qualifiers after sharing a series on short notice with Malaysia in Lisnagarvey at the start of October.

Team News

Ireland men’s squad for World Cup qualifiers (club/caps)
Jamie Carr (GK, KHC Leuven, 34)
Mark Ingram (GK, Pembroke, 27)
Tom Cross (Annadale, 22)
Luke Madeley (KHC Leuven, 23)
Lee Cole (Monkstown, 90)
Conor Harte (KHC Dragons, 254)
Peter McKibbin (Lisnagarvey, 8)
Kyle Marshall (Old Georgians, 7)
Shane O’Donoghue (Glenanne, 197)
Sean Murray (captain, KHC Leuven, 85)
Neal Glassey (Crefelder HTC, 67)
Daragh Walsh (KHC Leuven, 58)
Michael Robson (Annadale, 120)
Johnny McKee (Banbridge, 49)
Conor Empey (SCHC, 2)
Sam Hyland (YMCA, 2)
Ben Walker (Braxgata, 42)
Jeremy Duncan (Monkstown, 63)

Travelling reserves
Matthew Nelson (Lisnagarvey, 69)
Kevin O’Dea (UCD, 7)

Where To Watch

The match will begin at 4 pm and will be shown live on EuroHockeyTV.

Adam Griggs steps down from Ireland Women’s Rugby

The IRFU confirm Adam Griggs will step down from his position as Ireland Women’s Head Coach following November’s Autumn Tests

Adam Griggs will vacate the Head Coach position when his current contract expires next month. His appointment that began in November 2017 will now come to an end. He will remain in charge for Ireland’s back-to-back Test matches against USA and Japan.

The IRFU has now announced the choice to appoint Greg McWilliams to fill in.

McWilliams brings a wealth of experience to the position. He will commence his role on 1st December to begin preparations with the squad for the 2022 Six Nations.

The 43-year-old was previously part of the Ireland Women’s coaching team. He served as an assistant coach for the 2010 and 2014 Rugby World Cups, as well as the 2013 Six Nations-winning campaign.

During his time in America, McWilliams was the Director of Rugby at Yale University and USA Eagles in 2017. McWilliams’ most recent role was Head Coach of Major League Rugby outfit Rugby United New York.

 

Commenting on today’s announcement, IRFU Director of Women’s and Sevens Rugby, Anthony Eddy, said:

“I would like to thank Adam for his commitment and dedication to the position.”

“Although there was disappointment with the outcome of the World Cup qualification, the squad has developed under his direction, and players have been identified and developed to a stage where now the incoming coach, Greg McWilliams, has a good squad to work with for the future.”

 

Griggs will move into the position of IRFU Provincial Talent Coach for Leinster, focusing on Talent ID and Player Development across both the Men’s and Women’s games.

He said: “It has been an enjoyable and challenging period. It was bitterly disappointing to exit the World Cup qualification as we did, however, I believe the group can take pride in their personal growth and development as rugby players.

“Personally, I will take plenty of learning from this experience which I look forward to implementing in the future. I would like to thank the players and support staff for their unwavering commitment to the green jersey and I look forward to watching a talented group grow into world-class players under Greg’s tutelage.”

Ahead of commencing his role with the IRFU, McWilliams commented: “It’s such an exciting time for women’s sport globally. There is a terrific energy building and I’m very grateful for the opportunity to be a part of that journey, continuing on from the great work paved by Adam and his staff. I’m most looking forward to meeting the staff at the IRFU High-Performance Centre, the players, and their families.

 

The IRFU will announce the squad for the Autumn Tests against USA and Japan early next week

To read more in-depth and up-to-date Irish international and provincial rugby news, click here.

New dates for the SSE Airtricity First Division play-offs fixtures

New dates for the SSE Airtricity First Division play-offs have been announced.

The first leg of the play-offs will now take place on Wednesday, November 3 whilst the second leg will take place later that week on Sunday, November 7.

The First Division play-off final is provisionally set for Friday, November 19 and the promotion/relegation play-off final is provisionally set for Friday, November 26.

SSE Airtricity First Division – Play-offs

Wednesday, November 3

5th Place vs 2nd Place 1st Leg
4th Place vs 3rd Place 1st Leg

Sunday November 7

2nd Place vs 5th Place 2nd Leg
3rd Place vs 4th Place 2nd Leg

Republic of Ireland v Sweden – Preview, Team News, Where To Watch

The Republic of Ireland Women’s national football team begin their qualification campaign for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup when they host Sweden at Tallaght Stadium on Thursday night.

The match will be played in front of a sold-out crowd that has been capped by Covid restrictions.

The winner of UEFA Group A will earn automatic qualification to the next Women’s World Cup while the team that finishes in second will enter into the play-offs if they are one of the three best runner-ups among all nine UEFA groups.

Ireland ended a seven-game losing streak in their most recent outing, beating Australia 3-2 in front of fans in Tallaght and will hope for a repeat of fortunes on Thursday evening.

Four of the six teams they faced in that dismal run currently occupy a place in the top 20 of FIFA’s World rankings.

Vera Pauw’s side will play their first game in the group stages of the FIFA World Cup qualification campaign and are the only side yet to play a game.

The Republic of Ireland were meant to have played Georgia in their opening Group A game last month but that was rescheduled until June 2022.

Sweden, on the other hand, sit first in the group with two wins from two against Georgia and Slovakia and are yet to concede.

The World number two national team will hope to earn their place at the upcoming World Cup and improve upon their third-place finish in 2019 and continue the form that earned them a silver medal at Tokyo 2020.

Ireland have never played at a World Cup and sit 33rd in the world, eight places behind Finland who are also in their group.

Captain Caroline Seger scored a brace in the Blue and Yellow’s last match, a 4-0 win over Georgia, and leads the way on the scoring charts in the group.

Three other goalscorers have found the net for the Swedes in the competition so far and Peter Gerhardsson’s team will be sure to give the Irish defence a headache.

“The target for us is to qualify,” Vera Pauw noted. “We fully understand how difficult our group is with four tough opponents in Sweden, Finland, Slovakia and Georgia.

“But we must believe in ourselves, work as hard as we can, and show the world that we are ready for this.

“Sweden are a fantastic team. They finished as runners-up in the Tokyo Olympics and are ranked second in the world.

“We know all about their quality but it is up to us – as a team collectively – to embrace this challenge. We hope that playing in front of our fantastic fans will also help us.

“I’ve said it so many times and every time I feel it in my bones: the Irish fans are really special!

“There is no doubt that they help to drive the team on during difficult periods and inspire them to keep working hard.

“It definitely had an impact in our win over Australia and I hope to experience the same again in front of a sold-out crowd.”

Teams

Republic of Ireland: Brosnan; Finn, Fahey, L. Quinn, McCarthy, O’Gorman; L.J. Quinn, O’Sullivan, Connolly, McCabe; Payne.

Subs: Walsh, Scott, Caldwell, Kiernan, Barrett, Maloney, Farrelly, Grant, Noonan, Clancy, McLaughlin, Badana.

Sweden: Lindahl; Glas, Ilestedt, Eriksson, Andersson; Bennison, Rolfo, Angeldal; Jakobsen, Blackstenius, Hurtig.

Subs: Kullberg, Fischer, Janogy, Rytting Kaneryd, Falk, Blomqvist, Olme, Curmark, Anvegard, Musovic, Schough, Rubensson.

Where To Watch

The game will kick-off at 7 pm and will be available to watch live on RTÉ 2, with coverage starting at 6:30 pm.

Ireland v France – Preview, Team News, Where To Watch

The Ireland Women’s national hockey team will take part in the European qualifiers for the 2022 Women’s FIH Hockey World Cup.

The eight-team competition will be played in a knock-out format with only one side earning a place at next summer’s World Cup which will be played at venues in Spain and the Netherlands.

The qualification tournament is being held in Pisa, Italy and Ireland will face France in the first match of their campaign at 10:30 am.

Ireland are the highest-ranked side in the tournament, sitting at number 12 in the world, with Italy being the closest side to them in the rankings also vying for the final European spot in 17th – France are ranked 27th in the world.

A win in this fixture will earn Sean Dancer’s side the right to face either Russia or Belarus in the semi-final.

The Irish side are hoping to improve upon their fortunes after disappointing in their first-ever Olympic campaign at Tokyo 2020 earlier this year.

Dancer’s team failed to get out of the group stage, winning only once in their first match against South Africa and losing an important game to India, whom they beat in the 2018 World Cup.

The girls in green will be aiming to return to the World Cup stage after finishing second in London four years ago as the second-lowest seed in the competition.

France, on the other hand, are looking to bridge a 41-year gap and make their fourth-ever appearance in the competition.

Gael Foulard’s team won the EuroHockey Championship III in 2019 and followed it up with a silver medal in EuroHockey Championship II earlier this year has put Les Bleues within a chance of doing so.

Teams

Ireland: McFerran (GK), M. Carey, Upton, Mullan (C), Tice, Carroll, McLoughlin, Watkins, Hawkshaw, O’Flanagan, N. Carey.

Subs: Murphy (GK), Getty, Malseed, Torrans, Duke, Curran, McAuley.

France: Petriaux (GK), Ponthieu (C), Brachet, Simon, Lesgourgues, van Bolhuis, Verzura, Lardeur, Garot, Gaspari, Schubert.

Subs: Ehrmann (GK), Lahlah, Lhopital, Verrier, van der Zanden, Arnaud, Roque.

Where To Watch

The match will be available to watch live on EuroHockeyTV.

AR and VR Are Changing the Gambling Industry

When online gambling first became available, players had access to the most simple games. The titles did not have enhanced features or even the best graphics. Over the years, the changes in technology have allowed software developers to create amazing casino games that are now enjoyed worldwide today. Now, with great graphics, animations, sounds, and added features, casino games provide players with a realistic experience. 

The industry is always changing, and new technology is coming into play regularly. There are two technologies that have quickly evolved, and both of these are changing the gambling market. Virtual reality and artificial intelligence are the biggest changes within the online market. These will allow operators to offer a better experience for players and will also allow for software developers to create the best games ever to become available.

Here, we will examine how each of these technologies is being used and how they will change the future of online gambling. There are already some operating casinos and developers that are making use of virtual reality to offer players the most rewarding and thrilling gambling experience. While the technology is still new and has not been implemented at many sites, you can learn all about how VR and AR are being used and how they will eventually have an impact on your gambling experience when you access an online casino.

What Are AR and VR?

As a gambler who plays online, you will want to understand how AR and VR work and how they are different. They are both very similar technologies that will alter how we interact with an environment and how we perceive that environment. However, they differ in regards to the hardware that is required. The hardware is used to change our environmental surroundings.

With AR or Augmented reality, you will have a better experience since your current physical environment is changed by the use of superimposed layers of virtual objects. In short, AR has the ability to add audio, people, and items to your surroundings. These are all added to your current location. In many cases, you will not require specialized hardware to enjoy AR. When used in an online casino setting, your smartphone will be all that is needed. Augmented reality software is also easier to develop since the company will not have to create any backgrounds or environments.

With VR or virtual reality, you will experience an environment that is completely simulated. It is used to allow players to become immersed in a virtual world and provide a unique experience. VR will require players to use a special headset as well as speakers. Unfortunately, the requirement for hardware will limit who can enjoy VR online gambling since these things can be costly. 

For the best experience, users will require a good headset to present the virtual world through lenses. Since not everyone can afford the added hardware, VR casinos may not be the best option for all players. AR casinos, however, do not have these requirements and are easier for software companies to create and manage.

How AR and VR Are Revolutionizing the Online Gambling Industry

Both of these technologies are at the forefront of changing how we play casino games online. By providing more excitement and realism, you will find that casinos adopting AR and VR technology will become the top-rated sites due to the ability to offer a virtual experience. These two technology fields are still in their infancy, so it is impossible to tell you exactly how they will be used in online casino venues. 

The use of these technologies has a single purpose. That is to greatly improve the user’s experience by creating a virtual atmosphere that replicates what you would enjoy at a land casino. Players will be able to feel like they are walking the floors of a land-based casino and will even be able to interact with others. With these added technologies, the world of online gambling will be changed forever. 

Instead of simply accessing your standard games and playing on a mobile device or PC, you will engage in a virtual experience with other players from all over the world. You can even look around to see the sights at a casino and stroll down the aisles of slots before picking a game. AR and VR will truly change the world of iGaming.

If you are a fan of online casino games and are already enjoying the activities offered at leading sites, you will want to learn more about these amazing technologies that will soon change the way you play. In the future, you will be able to play online slots while having the feeling of sitting right at the machine and being able to interact with other players in a virtual setting.

Not only will your slot experience be different, but this will apply to all games that are accessed at a VR or AR casino. You will find that live dealer games currently offered will not even compare to the realism that will be featured at these new types of casino sites. If you want to learn more about what you can expect from AR and VR technology, we have all the details right here!

All About Augmented Reality Casinos

As we have already described, augmented reality technology will take your current environment and add to it using virtual overlays. When it comes to online casinos, this exciting technology could offer a host of new features by combining the elements of virtual reality add-ons and live gaming. If you have ever played live dealer games at your favorite casino and thought these were realistic, they do not even come close to what would be offered at an AR casino site. 

The overall experience with augmented reality is greatly enhanced. While you may be used to sitting at a table or on the couch and playing casino games, you will not experience a virtual environment that will bring the live dealers right into your home! In addition to the enhanced overall experience, you will benefit from a better sound experience. AR casinos offer 360-degree sound, and when you turn your head to either side, you will be able to hear what is going on next to you, just like at a real casino. 

The AR technology has not yet been perfected for use in online casinos, but there are some sites that are starting to implement this technology. There are some hurdles that first have to be tackled before you will see AR on all casino sites. However, it is just a matter of time before this technology becomes mastered and is featured at gaming sites to offer you the most realistic experience since online gambling has been introduced.

Hurdles to Tackle with AR

Augmented reality is already being used by many software developers. However, there are still many things that need to be addressed before the technology is fully adopted in the gambling industry. The major issue is hardware. Players will have to make an investment to purchase headsets and other devices to take full advantage of the AR experience. These devices are available, but they are also still being developed. With existing models, you will not find mainstream features, and there could be some glitches when using headsets. It may be a few more years before the hardware is 100% effective, so if you look forward to AR gambling online, you will have to wait a bit longer.

Not only are there hurdles in regards to the hardware needed by players, but there are challenges to be addressed with software as well. Casino operators, as well as game developers, will have to develop new platforms that support augmented reality play. It can be difficult for operators to find the time and resources to develop new players that will embrace this new technology, so the market will be slow to offer AR casinos. 

Since there are still things that need to be ironed out, there is no definite time frame for AR casinos to launch. Some sites have started using bits of the technology to offer a better experience, but if you are waiting for a complete AR gambling session, it can be a few more years before we see these sites widely available.

Pros and Cons of AR Online Casinos

Augmented reality is quickly becoming a top technology used in gambling. One of the first games to incorporate AR was Pokemon GO,  launched back in 216. The amazing popularity of the game led software developers to implement AR in other types of games, including those you will find at online casinos. With a combination of a real and digital world, you can enjoy a unique and immersive experience and feel like you are right at your preferred land casino, all without leaving the comforts of home!

Let’s take a close look at the benefits and drawbacks of playing at an AR casino. After reviewing these, you will be able to determine if this form of gambling will best suit your needs.

Pros of AR Cons of AR
Enhanced gaming experience Games can be expensive to develop, leading to a shortage of titles
Ease of use with Android and iOS apps Confidentiality is a concern
Social interactions with dealers and players Increased chance of gambling addiction
Enhanced technology 

AR Casino Options

The overall goal when using Augmented Reality at an online casino is to combine your online experience with the real world. You will find this technology being used at casinos that have experienced developers that are providing games. At this point in time, there are no online casinos that have completely integrated AR. The cost to develop required software is expensive, and players will also have to incur costs to purchase hardware.

Even though AR casinos are not up and running, they are definitely something to expect in the next few years. Online developers and operators are always looking for new and exciting ways to improve your gambling experience. By combining a life-like experience with your current physical settings, you will find this form of gambling to deliver a unique and immersive experience, one that will surely be the future of gaming.

State of VR Casinos Today

Virtual reality has become a key concept for gamers, and this technology is also changing how players engage in casino gambling online or on a mobile device. VR is always evolving, and it is transforming the gambling industry each and every day. Many casinos are working to make the switch to VR so they can offer members the best possible experience and an enjoyable way to engage in real money play. 

As things are now, players can play an array of games at VR casinos, including slots, table games, and card games. With table games, the dealer is represented by a digital avatar, and so are all other players at the table. You can choose your own avatar and be able to chat with others as you enjoy the game. You will also have the ability to move around in a VR casino, just like if you were at your favorite land casino. When you move, all of the scenery will change, and you will be able to view games and players on the casino floor. 

The Future of VR Casinos

While there are already some great options to enjoy VR gambling, the future holds much more. With the technology always improving and being enhanced, the VR experience will become something that players could have only dreamt of a few years ago. Here, we take a look at the possibilities of VR casinos in the near future. While it is impossible to predict exactly what these new and improved sites will offer, we can provide you with a general idea of the features and experiences you will enjoy.

  • More Activities Can be Enjoyed – Casinos want to make sure you are always entertained and have a satisfying experience. This is one of the main forces behind a VR casino. The VR environment will allow you to enjoy more of the action at a casino, and some sites that are already using the technology offer bars and social areas. As things advance, there will be even more things to enjoy when you visit an online gambling site.
  • More Realistic and Immersive Games – As things continue to develop, you will find that VR casinos will be almost indistinguishable from land casinos. Immersive games will be offered when you can view the entire table, conduct bets using gestures and voice commands, and even high-five another player at the table when they enjoy a huge win! 
  • VR and Cryptocurrency Use – This is one of the easiest predictions we are able to make. Since many sites are already starting to make use of VR technology, new forms of money are also being created. Many players are already using cryptocurrencies to gamble online, and with VR casinos, you can expect some sites to be strictly crypto casinos where you can conduct secure payments with Bitcoin or other cryptos. It will be a purely digital experience.
  • VR will Merge with AI – Artificial intelligence is used in many ways all over the world every day. While it is not something we see yet in many online casinos, you can expect Virtual Reality sites to merge with AI in the future. This means that the casino will most likely be run by artificial intelligence, meaning no humans will be needed. Customer support services, banking, casino security, and other aspects will all be controlled by AI.
  • Customizable Experience – When VR casinos start to become popular, you will be able to customize your experience. Just like you can do with many of today’s video games, VR casinos will allow you to personalize an avatar or even the casino environment. By being able to make things personal, players will have a more satisfying experience.

How You Can Play at a VR Casino

Playing at a VR casino will deliver the most realistic and exciting experience online. While not every site is using this technology, you can find some great licensed and regulated casinos that have implemented VR technology and offer games that you can watch and play in real-time. To enjoy the thrills of these games and have the best online gambling session, there are some things you will have to do. 

To get started playing at any VR casino, just follow these steps. You will then be able to enjoy the realism offered and play all of your favorite games!

  • Purchase and set up a VR headset. 
  • Register for an account with a trusted VR online casino. Be sure to read reviews of sites to make sure you are choosing one that is trusted and has a positive reputation for VR gambling.
  • Make your deposit at the casino and start playing the most exciting VR games online!

Pros and Cons of VR Casinos

At casinos that use virtual reality technology, you will enjoy an intriguing and engaging experience with the most stimulating visual effects and sounds. With the ability to enjoy a setting where other players are interacting and playing casino games in real-time, this new technology will surely be the future of iGaming. Before you make any decision to purchase hardware and sign up at an operating VR casino, take some time to review these pros and cons. You want to make sure that this form of gambling is the best choice for your needs as well as for your budget.

Pros of VR Gambling Cons of VR Gambling
Provides a life-like experience You may have to wager more than with standard online casino games
You have the ability to chat with others Players tend to become ignorant of their surroundings
An increasing number of VR games Added cost to purchase headsets
A unique experience that is completely different from standard online gambling Sites not widely available
Constant upgrades and enhanced technology

VR Casinos Today

There are already some great VR casinos operating and offering the chance to engage in the most realistic form of play. SlotsMillion was the first VR casino to launch, and this became available in 2015. At this site, you can play top games and will feel like you are sitting right in front of your favorite slot games. All interactions are in real-time, similar to when playing live dealer casino games.

Microgaming is one company to watch for if you want to engage in VR gambling. This software developer jumped on board and started to create amazing 3D games that could be played on a PC or mobile device. While there may not be many VR casinos operating at this time, you can expect many to enter the industry in the coming years. This technology is quickly changing how players engage in real money wagering online, and as more sites adopt the technology, you will find many available options to enjoy the most realistic forms of gambling.

Conclusion

How will AR and VR alter the way we engage in online gambling? Both of these technologies will enhance the overall experience by offering real-time play and interactions with other players along with dealers. While this may sound similar to live dealer games, the experience will be quite different. VR casinos will have the ability to transport players into a virtual casino world where they can walk the casino floor, move in different directions, engage with others, and more. With AR casinos, computer-generated objects will be projected using a headset to augment your real-world environment. 

VR and AR casinos will be the future of gambling and as technology continues to evolve, we can expect sites to start using these technologies in the near future to provide players with the most immersive and realistic gambling experience ever available online. For those who love the thrills of gambling and already play online, these new types of casinos will be a game-changer!

 

Richie O’Neill joins Shefflin in Galway as coach and selector

Former Kilkenny hurler Richie O’Neill will join Henry Shefflin in Galway as a coach and selector of the county’s senior hurlers.

Shefflin was confirmed as the new manager of the side by Galway GAA on Wednesday evening.

The duo have joined the inter-county side on a three-year term with a review expected at the end of the second year.

The rest of the new Galway backroom will be finalised in the coming weeks following the appointments of Shefflin and O’Neill.

“Managing the Galway Senior Hurlers presents a unique opportunity, and we relish the exciting challenge ahead as we begin the journey,” Shefflin said in the statement released by Galway GAA.

“We look forward to working with the players, the county board, and the wider Galway GAA community over the coming years.”

King Henry won 10 All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship titles during his playing career with the Cats and complemented that with 13 Leinster triumphs, six National Hurling League titles and 11 All-Stars.

Shefflin also won three All-Ireland titles with the club in a 20-year playing career that saw him pick up another six Kilkenny titles and four more provincial crowns.

He also won two Fitzgibbon Cups in his five years with the Waterford IT hurling team.

Richie O’Neill played alongside Shefflin during Kilkenny’s golden era and was part of his backroom at Ballyhale Shamrocks, where the pair led the side to Kilkenny, Leinster and All-Ireland glory in the space of two years.

The club went 17 games undefeated in a period that saw them reach the pinnacle of club hurling twice.

O’Neill also has been involved with the Kilkenny intermediate side in the past while Shefflin has most recently been in charge of Thomastown.

“The appointment of Henry Shefflin to lead our flagship team underpins both our immediate ambition for Galway hurling as well as a commitment to building a sustainable pathway for our young hurlers.

“This will be followed by the appointment of our U20 and Minor Management teams, as well as the Head of our newly constituted Adult Development Squad for 2022.”

Simon Zebo returns in green for Ireland Autumn internationals

Andy Farrell has named a 38-man Ireland squad for the upcoming Autumn internationals against Japan, New Zealand and Argentina.

The three matches will be played in November at the Aviva Stadium and Munster winger Simon Zebo will be among those in the squad for them.

Johnny Sexton who has been capped 99 times for his country will lead the squad during this international window.

Six of Ireland’s players who toured with the British and Irish Lions during the summer – Bundee Aki, Tadhg Beirne, Jack Conan, Tadhg Furlong, Iain Henderson and Conor Murray are included as is Ronan Kelleher who joined the squad in South Africa.

Six of the players who won their first caps during the Vodafone Summer Series in July have been included in the squad – Robert Baloucoune, Harry Byrne, Gavin Coombes, James Hume, Tom O’Toole and Nick Timoney.

There are two uncapped players named Leinster duo Dan Sheehan and Ciaran Frawley, who have impressed under former Ireland international Leo Cullen.

Robbie Henshaw will continue his rehabilitation programme under the supervision of the Ireland medical team.

Thomas Ahern (Munster) and Jamie Osborne (Leinster) will train with the squad as development players during this window.

Ireland Head Coach Andy Farrell, commented: “It has been a short lead into this international window but that is the challenge, to get back up to speed quickly and build on the performances from the Six Nations and the Summer Tests.

“This is the start of an exciting period for the group as we begin to build towards the Rugby World Cup in France.”

“In September we got together and mapped out what was coming up in this window, the exciting fixtures that lay ahead in the next 12 months and beyond that the opportunities to improve as a group over the next five windows we will have together.

“In a few weeks’ time, we will face an exciting and well-coached Japan team who showed in July what a dangerous team they are.

“New Zealand dominated the Rugby Championship losing just one game while Argentina are battle-hardened from playing the southern hemisphere’s Big 3 week in week out over the past two months.

“It would be fantastic to play in front of a full-house at the Aviva Stadium.  We had small crowds back in for the games in July and even that made a huge difference to the team and the atmosphere in the stadium.”

Ireland’s Autumn Nations Series fixtures at the Aviva Stadium will be televised on RTE (ROI) and Channel 4 (NI).

Ireland Squad for Autumn Internationals

Backs (18)
Bundee Aki (Connacht/Galwegians) 31 caps
Robert Baloucoune (Ulster/Enniskillen) 1 cap
Harry Byrne (Leinster/Lansdowne) 1 cap
Joey Carbery (Munster/Clontarf) 24 caps
Craig Casey (Munster/Shannon) 3 caps
Andrew Conway (Munster/Garryowen) 25 caps
Keith Earls (Munster/Young Munster) 93 caps
Ciaran Frawley (Leinster/UCD)*
Jamison Gibson Park (Leinster) 10 caps
James Hume (Ulster/Banbridge) 1 cap
Hugo Keenan (Leinster/UCD) 13 caps
Jordan Larmour (Leinster/St Mary’s College) 30 caps
James Lowe (Leinster) 6 caps
Stuart McCloskey (Ulster/Bangor) 5 caps
Conor Murray (Munster/Garryowen) 89 caps
Garry Ringrose (Leinster/UCD) 34 caps
Johnny Sexton (Leinster/St Mary’s College) 99 caps CAPTAIN
Simon Zebo (Munster/Cork Constitution) 35 caps

Forwards (20)
Ryan Baird (Leinster/Dublin University) 5 caps
Finlay Bealham (Connacht/Buccaneers) 16 caps
Tadhg Beirne (Munster/Lansdowne) 22 caps
Jack Conan (Leinster/Old Belvedere) 20 caps
Gavin Coombes (Munster/Young Munster) 2 caps
Ultan Dillane (Connacht/Corinthians) 19 caps
Caelan Doris (Leinster/St Mary’s College) 9 caps
Tadhg Furlong (Leinster/Clontarf) 49 caps
Cian Healy (Leinster/Clontarf) 109 caps
Iain Henderson (Ulster/Academy) 63 caps
Rob Herring (Ulster/Ballynahinch) 22 caps
Ronan Kelleher (Leinster/Lansdowne) 13 caps
Dave Kilcoyne (Munster/UL Bohemians) 45 caps
Peter O’Mahony (Munster/Cork Constitution) 76 caps
Tom O’Toole (Ulster/Ballynahinch) 1 cap
Andrew Porter (Leinster/UCD) 37 caps
James Ryan (Leinster/UCD) 37 caps
Dan Sheehan (Leinster/Lansdowne)*
Nick Timoney (Ulster/Banbridge) 1 cap
Josh van der Flier (Leinster/UCD) 32 caps

*denotes uncapped player

Development Players

Thomas Ahern (Munster/Shannon)
Jamie Osborne (Leinster/Naas)

Fixtures

IRELAND v Japan
Aviva Stadium , Saturday 6th November, 2021

IRELAND v New Zealand
Aviva Stadium , Saturday 13th November, 2021

IRELAND v Argentina
Aviva Stadium , Sunday 21st November, 2021

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