'Ireland play much better rugby than England' - Parisse and O'Shea back Joe Schmidt's men for gloryThe Italy coach believes Ireland will lift the 2018 title, following the Azzurri's 56-19 defeat to Joe Schmidt's side in Dublin. Italy captain Sergio Parisse believes Ireland "play much better rugby" than England, assessing the two most-fancied teams in the tournament after Italy have lost to both in their opening matches. "If you were to ask me now you'd say Ireland will win," said O'Shea, tipping Ireland to deny England a record third-straight Six Nations crown. Italy talisman and captain Parisse also backed up O'Shea's assertion that Ireland are bound for glory this year, insisting that Schmidt's side are superior to England. "I think Ireland play much better rugby than England for me," said Parisse.

Source: Irish Independent February 10, 2018 18:47 UTC