Jonathan Sexton gets nod ahead of Ronan O'Gara

Wednesday 24 February 2010
Published By: Ben Welch
Six Nations > Ireland

Ireland coach Declan Kidney has revealed that Jonathan Sexton will start Saturday's encounter with England in place of Ronan O'Gara, one of four changes to the team which were humbled in Paris two weeks ago.

Despite missing the opening game through injury, Sexton pushed himself to the front of Kidney's plans after impressing against South Africa last year and will join Rory Best, who comes in at hooker while Jerry Flannery starts a six-week ban for his wild kick in the France game.

Other changes to the side see Donncha O'Callaghan selected ahead of Leo Cullen in the second row, while Geordon Murphy will return at full back.

Kidney said of Sexton: "We're blessed with two great outhalves, one with huge experience, another up-and-coming yet to prove it so I thought it was an opportunity to give him his go this time."

Martin Johnson, meanwhile, has placed his faith in the team that managed to squeeze past Italy in Rome and has named an unchanged starting line-up for Saturday's clash, which kicks off at 16:00 GMT.

Posted by Ben Welch