Ireland captain Sexton on track to face Italy

Ireland captain Johnny Sexton looks on track to win his fitness battle ahead of Sunday's Guinness Six Nations meeting with Italy.

The out-half is scheduled to appear at a remote press conference this afternoon, sginalling that he has overcome the hamstring injury that saw him ruled out of the France defeat.

Speaking last week, head coach Andy Farrell had indicated that the 36-year-old would be back in the running for selection.

"Johnny is going through his protocols, he joined in training. He is going through the end stages of rehab and we expect him to be fully fit next week," said Farrell.

Joey Carbery started his first championship game in Paris, while Jack Carty came on as a late replacement in the 30-24 loss.

More to follow...

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