But on Thursday’s evidence, this French outfit looks close to a complete side with a shrewd plan. Against the top sides, Ireland do not yet look comfortable embracing a greater focus on kicking and transition attack. The well-crafted, reasonably scripted game plan of the 2018 Grand Slam did not see much tinkering ahead of the following year’s World Cup. In 2023, across Grand Slam and World Cup campaigns, Ireland put boot to ball in open play 27.2 times per match. At this specific moment in time, Ireland’s game plan does not suit its players.

Source: The Irish Times February 07, 2026 19:42 UTC