Joe Schmidt has made eight changes to his Ireland team, from their World Cup quarter final exit, ahead of Sunday’s Six Nations opener against Wales.
As predicted, this morning, CJ Stander makes his debut at blindside while Munster teammate joins him at openside. Familiar face Jamie Heaslip retains his No.8 jersey.
There are only three players retained in the Ireland pack – Heaslip, captain Rory Best and Devin Toner.
Andrew Trimble and Keith Earls are on the wings and Simon Zebo steps in for the hamstrung Rob Kearney at fullback.
Sean O’Brien [hamstring] has not been risked for the game but may feature against France on February 13.
There are interesting calls on the bench. Ian Madigan and Dave Kearney will cover the backs, Rhys Ruddock the back row and Kieran Marmion edges out Eoin Reddan for the reserve scrum-half spot.
IRELAND TEAM TO PLAY WALES
Here’s the official squad announcement.
