Baloucoune is one of three backline changes, the 28-year-old coming in on the right wing for Tommy O’Brien for his fifth cap and a first since November 2022. The Ireland boss made special mention of the debutant lock as he announced his squad to face the Italians on Thursday. That berth on the bench goes to a fit-again Tadhg Furlong, with the potential to earn an 83rd Irish cap as he replaces Finlay Bealham. We know we have to reach a consistently high standard and that's the exciting challenge that awaits us. Replacements: R Kelleher, T O’Toole, T Furlong, E Edogbo, T Beirne, N Timoney, J Gibson-Park, J Crowley.

Source: Irish Examiner February 12, 2026 16:04 UTC