Ireland must rediscover attacking edge for England test

A historic third Six Nations championship quest begins at home to England on Saturday, but well-placed optimism can't give way to complacency.

Ireland haven’t opened their campaign against England since 2019, a fixture that derailed their run into the World Cup in Japan that same year.

It’s difficult to know how England will turn up in this championship.

Despite not hitting their expected heights in the last few Six Nations championships, they can never be ruled out of winning the tournament.

They’ve had plenty of time to devise a plan that can put Ireland out of their comfort zone, and I’d expect a hugely physical and testing game from Steve Borthwick’s team.

Without ever getting a consistent run of form last year, England brought Ireland’s Grand Slam charge to a halt. The men in green were good enough to finish top of the pile, but it was England that really got to them. No doubt our near neighbours will be out to do it again this weekend.

Simon Easterby has a couple of selection debates, but for the most part it is a settled side that nearly picks itself.

With Tadgh Furlong ruled out, you’d expect Finlay Bealham to get a rare start with Thomas Clarkson coming onto the bench, which would be a big step up for the Leinster man.

The hooker position will be interesting.

Dan Sheehan is clearly Ireland’s best hooker, but with just 60 minutes of club rugby under his belt, and a very early return from his long-term knee injury, we might see his impact from the bench, with Rónan Kelleher getting the starting jersey.

Launching Sheehan from the bench could work two-fold; ease the 26-year-old’s return to Test rugby, while also providing an impact and a psychological edge for Ireland should they struggle in the opening half.

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