news by country
Sexton and DOC looking good
Jonny Sexton and Donncha O'Callaghan are both set to be it to play in the Six Nations match against France this coming weekend.
Ireland wait on injured duo
Ireland have injury doubts over fly-half Ronan O'Gara and wing Andrew Trimble ahead of Saturday's Six Nations clash against France in Paris.
Poor start doesn't faze Heaslip
Jamie Heaslip is unconcerned by Ireland's faltering start to the Six Nations as they address the fallout from their laboured 29-11 victory over Italy.
D'Arcy calls for improvement
Gordon D'Arcy expects to see a "sting" in training this week following an unconvincing start to Ireland's Six Nations title defence.
BOD happy with Italian job
Brian O'Driscoll said it was a 'good workout' after Ireland made a winning, if stuttering, start to the defence of their Six Nations crown.
Job done for smarter Ireland
Ireland got their Six Nations Championship defence up and running on Saturday with a slightly stagnant 29-11 victory over Italy.
Ireland Wolfhounds hunt down Scots
Scotland's Mike Blair endured a losing return to action as Scotland 'A' lost 34-19 to the Ireland Wolfhounds at Ravenhill on Friday.
BOD injury fears allayed
Brian O'Driscoll will definitely start for Ireland in their Six Nations opener against Italy , despite doubts over the fitness of the Grand Slam-winning captain.
Preview: Ireland v Italy
Now comes the tricky part. After waiting 61 years to claim only their second Grand Slam, Ireland must now prove it was no fluke.
BOD rallies his troops
Brian O'Driscoll will lead Ireland into Saturday's 6N opener warning his team-mates they must continue to evolve if they are to retain their title.
Healy looking to edge Castro
Cian Healy bristles at criticism of Ireland's scrum and is eager to establish his own reputation by routing Martin Castrogiovanni.
Cullen called in for crocked DOC
Ireland have been forced into a late change ahead of their Six Nations clash with Italy after Donncha O'Callaghan was ruled out.
O'Leary keeps feet on the ground
Tomas O'Leary is adamant Grand Slam champions Ireland remain grounded despite having completed an unbeaten year in 2009.
Ferris' pain is McLaughlin's gain
Kevin McLaughlin will make his Test debut in Saturday's Six Nations opener vowing to embrace the role of Ireland enforcer.
Angry Italy could be a menace
Jamie Heaslip fears embittered Italy will be galvanised by their failure to join the Magners League when they face Ireland on Saturday.
