Breaking Lowry to make debut with Sexton benched for Italy

Michael Lowry will win his first international cap as one of six changes made to the Ireland team to face Italy on Sunday (3pm).

The Ulster full-back gets the nod ahead of regular starter Hugo Keenan for Ireland's third game of the Guinness Six Nations.

Robbie Henshaw, James Lowe, Dan Sheehan, Ryan Baird and Peter O'Mahony all come into Andy Farrell's side, who were beaten by France last time out.

It means that there is no starting place for Johnny Sexton who is named on the bench, with O’Mahony taking over the captaincy duties.

James Ryan missed out with an adductor issue.

More to follow...

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