Murray replaces injured Gibson-Park in Cardiff

Ireland have been forced to make a late change ahead of their Six Nations opener with Jamison Gibson-Park ruled out through injury, with Conor Murray stepping up to the starting XV.

The Leinster scrum half was initially named to start and trained with the team yesterday but news has filtered through this morning that he is out with a reported hamstring issue.

The 33-year old Murray, who earned his 100th cap in the win over South Africa last November, starts in his place. His Munster teammate Craig Casey has been elevated to the subs bench.

Andy Farrell's side was already hit by the injury to prop Tadhg Furlong during the week.

The Six Nations' favourites are seeking a first Six Nations victory in the Welsh capital since 2013.