Brett Igoe

The new rugby rules function as a diplomatic immunity agreement for Antoine Dupont. The world's best player has effectively been granted legal protection at the most critical junctures of play.

Conor Murray, Peter O'Mahony and Cian Healy are calling time on their international careers at the end of the Six Nations. The move focuses attention on the players seeking to replace them. Based on data and game time, this is the current state of Ireland's depth chart.

The track record of mid-tournament coaching changes shows such transitions present challenges for teams and coaching staff. Still, don’t be surprised if Ireland gets into a dogfight for much of the Welsh game.

A closer look at Ireland's performance in the opening rounds of the Six Nations reveals insights that television statistics fail to capture. This detailed analysis shows both Ireland's competitive advantages and potential vulnerabilities that could prove decisive for Ireland.

While Irish fans champion their player development pathways and voice negative views of Scotland’s "Kilted Kiwis" approach, there are similarities in both unions' approach to recruiting players.

While pioneers like Liam Hennessy laid crucial groundwork with early professional Irish teams during their Eastern European training camps, the current setup reflects years of scientific advancement and meticulous planning.

The Leinster contingent arrive transformed by Jacques Nienaber's system, a dramatic departure from Ireland's traditional Six Nations approach. Easterby must rewire players back to the established "Ireland Way" or boldly embrace Nienaber's methods.

Munster cannot build its future on cast-offs from other provinces or settle for players who couldn't make the grade elsewhere. The current system clearly isn't delivering results, and change is imperative.

Under Jacques Nienaber's stewardship, Leinster has transitioned from its traditional attacking dominance to a defence-driven strategy. This shift has brought early success but has the focus on defence blunted the attack?

The potential of the Champions Cup is undeniable, yet the current format squanders half the season before the tournament truly ignites.