Big chance for Ross Byrne and Craig Casey – Italy versus Ireland talking points

Ireland continue their pursuit of the Guinness Six Nations title by taking on Italy in Rome.

Andy Farrell’s men head to Stadio Olimpico on the back of convincing bonus-point wins over Wales and France.

Here, the PA news agency picks out some of the main talking points ahead of Saturday afternoon’s round-three clash.

Maintaining momentum

The table after R2 ▲▽ #GuinnessSixNations pic.twitter.com/MIU7M1YPSH

— Guinness Six Nations (@SixNationsRugby) February 13, 2023

The world’s top-ranked team justified recent hype by propelling themselves into pole position for a first championship title since 2018 by impressively toppling reigning champions France last time out.

Head coach Farrell has made six personnel changes to his starting XV from that game, only two of which were enforced. The Englishman insisted he has not tinkered for the sake of it. He expects a seamless transition and for the incoming players to help ensure the in-form Irish remain as tournament frontrunners.

Big opportunities for Byrne and Casey

Our line up for Rome!