'There's a fair bit of hatred, isn't there? - Hansen ready for England challenge

Mack Hansen says the the ancient rivalry between Ireland and England adds "a bit of fire" to next Saturday's Grand Slam showdown.

Hansen moved to Ireland from Australia in 2021 and has established himself as a firm favourite in Andy Farrell's line-up since making his debut against Wales in the 2022 championship.

His player of the match performance yesterday was his second in a row and the 24-year-old has six tries in 13 caps, including a stunning finish for Ireland's first yesterday.

Hansen spoke recently about the impact the presentation given to the squad by former players Brian O'Driscoll and David Irwin about the history of the team and its place across two jurisdictions on the island made on him.

"It made me realise how [much] bother this country was in at one point and it's amazing to think of one team out of every sport stayed together, which was rugby, and were able to keep going," he said.

Hansen missed last year's win in Twickenham but is almost certain to take his place in the starting team for the weekend's meeting in the Aviva Stadium.

"I don't know if I should say too much. There's a fair bit of hatred, isn't there?" he said after yesterday's 22-7 success over Scotland in Murrayfield.

"It's good, though, because once the game is done they are good lads like everyone else.

"That s**t happened... how long ago now? But it does add a bit of fire to the game. I was unlucky that I didn't get to play last year, so fingers crossed I get to play next Saturday."

Asked about the awareness of the rivalry in Australia, the Canberra native said: "I think everybody hates England in general. It's something I was aware of for sure."

Hansen played in Ireland's final game in last season's Guinness Six Nations championship, which was