Ireland's Keith Earls handed first Six Nations start

Winger Keith Earls will start his first Six Nations game this weekend after being named in the Ireland XV (5/2 with Totesport to retain the Six Nations title) for Saturday’s clash with France in Paris.

Munster man Earls replaces Andrew Trimble, who picked up a hamstring strain in the defending champion 29-11 win over Italy last weekend but is included amongst the replacements.

Meanwhile, coach Declan Kidney is waiting for further fitness reports on blind-side flanker Stephen Ferris, who missed the Italy game with a knee injury, with a decision due on his fitness on Thursday.

Other than the inclusion of Earls and the possible return of Ferris, the rest of the Ireland line-up is unchanged from the opening game success with Ronan O’Gara remaining at fly-half.
The Irish (11/2 to claim the Grand Slam), who have Kevin McLaughlin on standby if Ferris is ruled out, will head to Paris seeking only their third victory in the French capital since 1952.

 

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