Our rugby jury answer the key questions ahead of Andy Farrell naming his team to face France1 – On a scale of 1-10, how optimistic are you about Ireland’s chances against France in Paris? Ruaidhri O’Connor: 2/10. Given Ireland’s myriad of issues emanating from last year and their list of absentees in key areas it’s hard to see them going to the home of French rugby and winning. They still have plenty of good players and France are far from perfect, but it’s a huge ask.

Source: Irish Independent February 02, 2026 14:31 UTC