Ireland begin their bid for a historic third consecutive Six Nations crown as they face England, who denied them a grand slam last year, in Dublin.
The final match of the opening weekend of the tournament may just prove its most consequential, with Ireland attempting an unprecedented feat and England desperate to rebound from a difficult autumn. The hosts are under the direction of interim coach Simon Easterby while Andy Farrell prepares to take charge of the British and Irish Lions. The temporary boss has made a huge call at fly half, installing youngster Sam Prendergast as his chief playmaker after an impressive autumn.
Their Twickenham win over Ireland remains the high water mark of England under Borthwick, and their last victory over a side other than Japan. the head coach has also been bold in selection with Ben Curry joining twin brother Tom in the starting back row for the first time at international level. Maro Itoje is the new England captain and leads the visitors as they look to engineer a tournament-tilting triumph.
Follow all of the latest updates from the Aviva Stadium in our live blog below:
Ireland vs England LIVE
Ireland host England in Dublin as the opening weekend of the Six Nations concludes | Live on ITV with kick off at 4.45pm GMT
Ireland are hunting an unprecedented third title in a row
Steve Borthwick's side denied their hosts a grand slam last year but have been short of success since
Ireland vs England LIVE
Thursday 30 January 2025 16:52 , Harry Latham-Coyle
The opening Six Nations weekend reaches a conclusion with perhaps the fixture of the round, Ireland out for revenge (and a first step towards history) against their 2024 conquerors England. The defending champions welcome Steve Borthwick’s side to Dublin this afternoon for a crunch clash, even at this early stage.
Kick off at the Aviva Stadium is at 4.45pm GMT.