Ireland monitor James Lowe fitness as 11 players return to URC duty
Ireland are awaiting further assessments on star winger James Lowe, who is recovering from a groin injury sustained during their recent win over England.
Fire damages Six Nations trophy, new silverware to be unveiled in 2027
The vehicle carrying the original trophy crashed last month, and while thankfully no passengers were injured, the resulting fire damaged the hallowed silverware.
The trophy was first introduced in 2015 to reflect the expansion to six teams, stood a handsome 75cm tall and was made from silver. A statement from the official website revealed what's next to come.
"As is the case with most major international sports tournaments, there is an identical exhibition Trophy which will be used for the remainder of the 2026 Championship, meaning the prestige and recognition of winning the Six Nations is unaffected," it read.
"A new trophy will be commissioned in the same design as the original, with materials from the original being incorporated into the new Trophy, ensuring its history is respectfully transferred to the new creation.
"The new trophy will take approximately 365 hours of skilled craftsmanship to create, meaning it will be unveiled ahead of the 2027 Championship."
Ellis Genge apologises after Ireland rout England to end Six Nations title hopes
England's Six Nations title hopes were effectively ended after a record 42-21 defeat to Ireland at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, with Ellis Genge apologising to supporters and admitting the squad had "believed the hype" after their opening-round win.
Steve Borthwick admits England have a lot of work to do after Ireland defeat
England head coach Steve Borthwick says he will have a long, hard look at how he sets up his team after they suffered a second consecutive defeat in the Six Nations.
France power past Italy to stay on course for Six Nations Grand Slam
France maintained their perfect start to the Six Nations with a commanding 33-8 victory over Italy in Lille on Sunday, stretching their lead at the summit to four points and keeping their Grand Slam ambitions firmly intact.