Andy Farrell would have needed no reminding of that before revealing his hand for Italy. The accusation is that the Ireland head coach has long been too conservative, too loyal, with his choice of players. Farrell, right, with players, from left, Jack Crowley, Ciarán Frawley, Sam Prendergast and Harry Byrne during training on Thursday. The Ireland XVs side was brushed aside by English counterparts in Limerick the day after the French lesson in Saint-Denis. How many cards does this coaching ticket have left to play?

Source: Irish Examiner February 12, 2026 22:21 UTC