After cutting Ireland apart in Paris, France took their foot off the gas - that's why Ireland managed to score two tries. Do Ireland's rugby pathways need a serious overhaul? However, any Italian player who hesitated to swap their Italian shirt for something that more resembled a used artist’s smock than a sacred shirt that represents the Scottish nation could not be blamed. After Ireland’s humbling defeat in Paris, the incessant whinging, moaning and complaining across the island speaks of a nation deluded about the reality of its rugby programme. Any belief that the Azzurri will simply roll over and give Ireland an easy win is another exercise in delusion.

Source: The Irish Times February 14, 2026 13:08 UTC