In aesthetics terms it was a scruffy performance with several lingering frailties from the heavy defeat to France on the first weekend of the Six Nations. This game might be a watershed; the players should understand that they have been given a fair crack to demonstrate their aptitude. The backrow reverts to the one that started against France with Billy Hayes returning to the run-on team at openside flanker. The priority for Ireland is to greatly reduce the self-inflicted wounds, while continuing to commit to playing without fear. Replacements: Jerold Gorleku (Harlequins), Oliver Spencer (Sale Sharks), Sonny Tonga’uiha (Northampton Saints), Tate Williams (Harlequins), George Marsh (Leicester Tigers), George Newman (Exeter Chiefs), Will Knight (Gloucester), Ollie Davies (Sale Sharks).

Source: The Irish Times February 20, 2026 10:30 UTC