Perhaps Ireland have alighted on a playing style and selection that suits them. For now, any assessments must engage in the entire thread of a fitful 2020 and not merely the immediate memory of its valedictory send-off. Ireland have, perhaps pleasingly, discovered that although he is inspirational, he is not necessarily indispensable after two damaging head knocks. Dave Kilcoyne5P4; M: 120Aged 32, a second championship head knock that terminated only his 10th start may have long-lasting consequences. Was discarded for most of the campaign and Farrell’s selection clearly swayed by erstwhile provincial familiarity but Aki delivered.

Source: Irish Independent March 22, 2021 02:33 UTC