Discipline continues to pay off for Ireland

Ireland's discipline continues to be a key component of their surge to the top of the world rankings and their Grand Slam tilt.

Since the end of the 2021 Six Nations, when Bundee Aki (red) and Conor Murray (yellow) were ordered off in the victory over England, Ireland have played 19 matches and picked up just two yellow cards, those coming in the second and third Tests in New Zealand last summer.

In that time, as Ireland lost just twice, to France and New Zealand, Irish opponents racked up 15 yellows and six reds.

An analysis prior to the Autumn International against Australia detailed just how impressive Ireland have been in comparison to the opposition and their ability to adjust to the required tackle standards continues in this year's Guinness Six Nations tournament, with no cards issued to Andy Farrell's men.

Ahead of this Sunday’s crucial round-four clash with Scotland in Murrayfield, Josh van der Flier says the players are now more conscious of the importance of keeping a full complement on board.

"Each individual has a responsibility to get their technique right, so they're not going to be making those high shots," said the flanker, who looks set to win his 49th cap in Edinburgh.

"It's an individual thing, it's hard to be coached as a team in that way but certainly it's something that's emphasised, having those good habits and focusing on trying to get your technique as good as possible.

"If each individual in the team is doing that then you'll hopefully end up with lower indiscipline."

Scotland lock Grant Gilchrist will miss out after being sent off in their loss to France in Round 3 and former Ireland lock Devin Toner says the Scots will miss the 32-year-old Edinburgh second row.

"Absolutely, he's a loss, 100% with his