In-form Bundee Aki shying away from being centre of attention

Bundee Aki has been one of Ireland's top performers in this Guinness Six Nations but the Connacht centre wants to share the attention around.

The 33-year-old was outstanding at the Rugby World Cup, with his five tries in five games leading him to a World Rugby player of the year nomination.

He hasn't been able to bring that try-scoring form into the Six Nations, but he's been no less effective, with his centre partnership with Robbie Henshaw a key part of this Irish team looking to retain their championship title this evening.

And the Connacht centre says whether he's played alongside Henshaw, Garry Ringrose or Stuart McCloskey, his midfield partners have always made him a better player.

"It's not really an individual sort of thing," Aki says.

"People around me make me look good, you know what I mean? It’s my team-mates around me make everything look a lot easier, so I’m just there to make sure that I do my job properly, as well as helping out the other players. Guys are just making myself look good.

"I know individual accolades, individual recognition is good but it's a team sport. I know it’s a cliche saying that, but it is a team sport. It’s how guys make you feel, it’s how guys make you look."

The 55-cap international is bashful upon receiving praise, but it quick to lavish it upon his team-mates, particularly towards his former Connacht partner Henshaw, who has come back into form after a year which had been punctuated by frustrating injuries.

"He has been unbelievable hasn't he? Robbie has always been class," said the New Zealand native.

"You know he has always been unlucky with a few injuries here and there, but if the guy gets to roll on and starts playing week in and week out, or even coming back from an injury, I