The impact off the bench at the Stade de France was the main upside for Ireland on a dispiriting night. That brings the likes of James Ryan, Nick Timoney and Jack Conan into the equation as strong candidates for a go from the off. Josh van der Flier had a quiet game in the Stade de France and could be under pressure from Timoney. Caelan Doris is another option at openside and a switch there would leave Conan to slot in to what is his favourite position. Jamie Osborne is almost certain to retain the full-back role, Stuart McCloskey was good at centre and Garry Ringrose is again his likely partner.

Source: Irish Examiner February 11, 2026 23:47 UTC