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Ireland claim 27-17 bonus-point win over Wales

Credit: @IrishRugby.

Ireland claimed a bonus-point 27-17 win over Wales in the Guinness Six Nations at the Aviva Stadium on Lansdowne Road on Friday night.

Opening half tries for Stockdale and Crowley, along with five-pointers from Conan and Osborne in the second half, saw Ireland claim their 60th win over Wales, in this the 137th meeting between the two countries.

Ireland score early

Ireland got on the board early with a try from Jacob Stockdale. The Lurgan winger crossed for the five-pointer with only five minutes on the clock. Touching down just marginally right of the right-hand post presented Jack Crowley with an easy conversion attempt, which he comfortably slotted over for a 7-0 Ireland lead.

Jack Conan thought he had scored his side’s second try of the night when beating two Welsh defenders to touch down in the 12th minute. Just as Crowley was about to kick the conversion, the referee Karl Dickson decided to consult with his TMO, Andrew Jackson. The decision was that front row Tom O’Toole had knocked the ball on at the back of the ruck, meaning the try was disallowed.

Edwards gets Wales on scoreboard

Dan Edwards had an easy effort to register the visitors’ first score of the game with a penalty kick from directly in front of the posts. The Ospreys’ kicker succeeded in reducing the deficit and brought his side to within four points of Ireland, with 17 minutes played.

Crowley touches down

Jack Crowley found himself in a two-on-one situation, played a dummy, and took the five points. The try, his fourth international try, pushed Ireland into a 12-3 lead. The Corkman missed the conversion which followed, however.

Wales close the gap

With the match clock past 40 minutes, Wales scored a try against the run of play. Front row, Rhys Carre of Saracens, showed quite a turn of foot for a prop, and scored despite the best efforts of Robert Baloucoune.

With Dan Edwards adding the extras, Ireland only took a two-point advantage into the dressing room at the break, leading 12-10

Ireland dominated the possession with 65%, the territory with 60%, made 93% of their tackles and covered 286 metres in the first half but will have felt disappointed heading to the dressing room at half-time with just a slender two-point lead.

Half-time score: Ireland 12 Wales 10

Jack Conan touched down early in the second period. The referee, Karl Dickson, again checked the validity of this score with his TMO, Andrew Jackson.

Conan Try

It took some time for the English referee to decide to award the score, but to the delight of the fans behind the posts, Conan’s try was confirmed. Crowley successfully kicked his second of three conversion attempts by that stage of the game, as Ireland moved into a 19-10 lead.

Wales hit back through Cardiff Rugby’s James Botham. The grandson of former England cricketer, Ian, the flanker crashed over left of the Irish posts following a period of relentless pressure from the visitors.

Dan Edwards added another conversion for the night to bring his side to within two points of the hosts. It was 19-17 with 16 minutes remaining on the stadium clock.

This seemed to be the warning Ireland required. Pressure from the hosts eventually saw fullback Jamie Osborne claim his fifth international try.

Despite a relatively easy conversion effort, Crowley missed his second kick at goals, as Ireland took a 24-17 advantage into the final 11 minutes of this Guinness Six Nations fixture.

Jack Crowley’s late penalty put Ireland’s supporters and management at ease as his score pushed Andy Farrell’s side to a 27-17 win.

Final score: Ireland 27  Wales 17 

Long Jump PB and Championship Record for Kate O’Connor

Kate O'Connor of Dundalk St Gerard's AC, Louth, competing in the women's long jump during day two of the 123.ie National Senior Indoor Championships at the National Indoor Arena on the Sport Ireland Campus in Dublin. Photo by Sam Barnes/Sportsfile. Photo provided by Athletics Ireland.

Kate O’Connor was the star of day two of the 123.ie National Senior Indoor Championships at the Sport Ireland National Indoor Arena.

O’Connor produced one of the standout performances of the championships in the women’s long jump.

Her opening-round effort of 6.50m was both a personal best and a championship record. The jump pushed O’Connor up to third place on the Irish all-time list and capped a remarkable weekend following her personal best run in the 60m hurdles (8.21 seconds) yesterday.

Speaking after her record-breaking performance, Kate O’Connor said:

“I’ve be training well and I was never going to enter myself into something I’m not training well in. It’s one thing doing well in training, but another thing to come out and do it when you’re under the pressure of competition. You’ve three chances to put in a good attempt as a multi-eventer, so I’m delighted I put that jump in on my first attempt.”

First Senior Title for Nick Griggs

The men’s 3000m final saw Nick Griggs claim the gold medal. The win for a first Irish senior title for Griggs, who stopped the clock in 8:14.52. His victory came after a final lap battle with eventual second Darragh McElhinney (8:15.08), and third-place finisher Andrew Coscoran.

Commenting on his first senior title, Griggs stated:

“It’s special to win my first senior title in the circumstances where it was basically a race-off. Who knows what the selectors will do but I’ve secured my auto qualification for the World indoors. There was a lot more pressure on nationals this year, usually nationals you can go out and enjoy it a bit more, so I’m delighted I was able to deliver on my race plan.”

Women’s 3000m Gold for Shanahan

Louise Shanahan timed her finish to perfection in the women’s 3000m final as she came through in the final metres to clock 9:22.47, and add the 3000m indoor title to last year’s 800m indoor title. Shanahan crossed the finishing line ahead of CNDR Track AC’s Zoe Toland, wo clocked 9:22.59, with Leevale AC’s Michelle Finn claiming the bronze medal in a time of 9:23.03.

1500m Gold Medals for Holmes and Mallon

The 1500m finals were both very tactical affairs, with both the men’s and women’s finals producing late finishes.

Lucy Holmes took the women’s title in 4:31.10 – her first senior indoor title. In the men’s final Lughaidh Mallon launched a decisive move to pass Luke McCann in the final strides to capture gold in dramatic fashion in a winning time of 3:43.45.

400m Wins for Mawdsley and Doggett

Tipperary athlete Sharlene Mawdsley showed her dominance in the women’s 400m with a composed performance to claim a third consecutive national indoor title in 51.89.

The men’s 400m was decided in a tight finish as Seán Doggett held off Fintan Dewhirst to take his first senior indoor crown in 47.33 seconds.

Neville and Akinola are 60m sprint winners

In the short sprints, Ciara Neville returned to the top step of the podium in the women’s 60m, securing her third national indoor title and her first since 20120. Neville’s winning time was 7.27 seconds.

In the men’s 60m final, Bori Akinola was in excellent form as he successfully defended his title. His time of 6.60 seconds continues his strong early-season form as his attention now turns towards the World Indoor Championships.

Other National Indoor Title Winners

In the women’s 800m final Hannah Seagrave won her first senior indoor title, while the men’s 800m final winner, Cillian Kirwan, claimed a championship record of 1:47.68 in winning his title.

West Waterford’s Kate Veale delivered another masterclass to claim an extraordinary tenth consecutive national indoor title in the women’s 3000m walk. Oisín Lane from Mullingar Harriers produced a commanding performance to secure his first senior indoor crown in the men’s event.

Eric Favors broke the championships record in the men’s shot with 19.57m, while Michaela Walsh won a 9th indoor title in-a-row. Michael Kent retained his title in the men’s pole vault with a best clearance of 4.50m.

Day 2 Results 

Men’s 5000m Walk

1 Oisín LANE Mullingar Harriers A.C. 19:39.92

2 Séamus CLARKE Moy Valley A.C. 20:33.19

3 Matthew GLENNON Mullingar Harriers A.C. 21:09.38

Women’s 3000m Walk

1 Kate VEALE West Waterford A.C. 13:50.48

2 Aisling LANE Mullingar Harriers A.C. 14:07.13

3 Ciara WILSON BOWEN Dundrum South Dublin A.C. 14:21.79

Women’s 3000m

1 Louise SHANAHAN Leevale A.C. 9:22.47

2 Zoe TOLAND CNDR Track A.C. 9:22.59

3 Michelle FINN Leevale A.C. 9:23.03

Men’s 3000m (A)

1 Nick GRIGGS CNDR Track A.C. 8:14.52

2 Darragh MCELHINNEY Bantry A.C. 8:15.08

3 Callum MORGAN CNDR Track A.C. 8:16.30

Women’s 1500m

1 Lucy HOLMES Dublin City Harriers A.C. 4:31.10

2 Niamh CARR Dublin City Harriers A.C. 4:32.39

3 Madison MOONEY Tullamore Harriers A.C. 4:32.80

Men’s 1500m

1 Lughaidh MALLON U.C.D. A.C. 3:43.45

2 Luke MC CANN U.C.D. A.C. 3:43.51

3 Ronan MCMAHON-STAGGS Dublin City Harriers A.C. 3:44.77

Women’s 400m

1 Sharlene MAWDSLEY Newport A.C. 51.89

2 Arlene CROSSAN Finn Valley A.C. 54.12

3 Jenna BREEN City of Lisburn A.C. 54.39

Men’s 400m

1 Seán DOGGETT Athenry A.C. 47.33

2 Fintan DEWHIRST Tír Chonaill A.C.47.84

3 Hugo MAGEE Crusaders A.C. 48.92

Women’s 60m

1 Ciara NEVILLE Emerald A.C. 7.27

2 Precious AKPE-MOSES Blackrock (Louth) A.C. 7.33

3 Molly SCOTT  St. Laurence. O’Toole A.C. 7.37

Men’s 60m

1 Bori AKINOLA U.C.D. A.C. 6.60

2 Max O’REILLY Riverstick/Kinsale A.C. 6.69

3 Craig DUFFY  Clonliffe Harriers A.C. 6.71

Women’s 800m

1 Hannah SEAGRAVE Clonliffe Harriers A.C. 2:07.76

2 Emma MOORE Galway City Harriers A.C. 2:08.06

3 Pia LANGTON Kilkenny City Harriers A.C. 2:09.19

Men’s 800m

1 Cillian KIRWAN Raheny Shamrock A.C. 1:47.68 CR

2 Callum HURLEY Ferrybank A.C. 1:48.37

3 Finn WOODGER Metro/St. Brigid’s A.C. 1:49.60

Men’s Pole Vault

1 Michael KENT SEN M D.M.P. A.C. 4.50                                                                            2 Shane POWER St. Joseph’s A.C. 4.40                                                                             3 Matthew ROSSITER St. Abban’s A.C. 4.00

Women’s Long Jump

1 Katherine O’CONNOR Dundalk St. Gerard’s A.C.  6.50 CR

2 Lauren CALLAGHAN Finn Valley A.C. 6.44

3 Anna MCCAULEY City of Lisburn A.C. 6.05

Men’s Long Jump

1 Sam HEALY Leevale A.C. 7.56

2 Reece ADEMOLA Leevale A.C. 7.49

3 Ryan ONOH Cork City A.C. 7.11

Women’s Shot Put

1 Michaela WALSH Swinford A.C. 14.15

2 Caoimhe GALLEN Lifford Strabane A.C. 13.02

3 Niamh MADDEN Nenagh Olympic A.C. 12.16

Men’s Shot Put

1 Eric FAVORS Raheny Shamrock A.C. 19.57 CR

2 John KELLY Finn Valley A.C. 18.19

3 James KELLY Finn Valley A.C. 15.49

Ireland second in Winter Equestrian Festival Nations Cup

Nations Cup Podium after Saturday night's Nations Cup at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Florida. Photo credit: Sportfot.

Ireland finished runners-up at the $150,000 CSIO4* Nations Cup at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Florida on Saturday night.

The Irish team consisted of Cian O’Connor, Jordan Coyle, Tom Wachman and Shane Sweetnam.

Teams from Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Israel and Mexico and the USA contested.

The hosts took the title – their 11th win in the 24-year history of the FEI Nations Cup at Wellington, Florida.

Ireland were tied for the lead with the USA at the midway point of competition as Israel and Colombia failed to advance to the second round over the Nick Garant-built course.

Ireland on zero score at half-way 

Ireland and the USA began the second round on zero scores, after Cian O’Connor, Shane Sweetnam and Tom Wachman had all jumped without faults.

Scores of zero on the board once again came from Callie Schott and Marilyn Little for the home nation, while a rail fell for Karl Cook.

For the Irish squad’s second round, Jordan Coyle and Cian O’Connor were clear, with Wachman aboard Do It Easy and Sweetman with Rural Junior SCF posting four faults each, ensuring the hosts took a second consecutive victory in the competition.

Eighth National Indoor 60m Hurdles Title for Sarah Lavin

Sarah Lavin of Emerald AC competing in the women's 60m hurdles during day one of the 123.ie National Senior Indoor Championships at the National Indoor Arena on the Sport Ireland Campus in Dublin. Photo by Sam Barnes/Sportsfile. Photo provided by Athletics Ireland.

The opening day of the 123.ie National Senior Indoor Championships at the Sport Ireland National Indoor Arena saw headline wins for Sarah Lavin, Adam Nolan, Sophie Becker and Mark Smyth.

Eighth title for Lavin

Emerald AC’s Sarah Lavin won her eighth national indoor 60m hurdles title as she beat world silver medallist Kate O’Connor of Dundalk St Gerard’s.

Lavin produced a smooth 60m hurdles run to win in 8.07 seconds, finishing ahead of Kate O’Connor who ran a huge personal best time of 8.21 seconds to go third on the Irish all-time list behind Derval O’Rourke and Lavin.

Commenting on her victory this afternoon, Sarah Lavin said:

“I’m happy, I would have liked a season’s best but to run sub eight is a difficult task. There were things I did really well there, and some things I need to tidy up but overall, it was a positive run. I want to carry the speed and intent through the race, sprinting is one thing, working on technique for the hurdles is another, and trying to bring those together”.

Orlaith Mannion (South Galway AC) rounded out the 60m hurdles podium in third in a time of 8.45 seconds.

Adam Nolan wins men’s 60m hurdles

The men’s 60m hurdles was claimed by Adam Nolan from St Laurence O’Toole AC, as he successfully defended his 2025 gold in a time of 8.03 seconds. Leevale’s Seán Carmody took second in 8.19 seconds, with 2025 high jump champion Ciarán Connolly of Le Chéile AC taking third spot in a time of 8.45 seconds.

Becker takes first senior 200m title 

Sophie Becker won her first national senior indoor 200m title with an indoor PB time of 23.43 seconds. Racing in the sixth lane, Becker utilised her opening 100m speed to break clear of the field to cross ahead of Molly Daly (Kilkenny City Harriers), who clocked 24.07 seconds for second place, with DSD’s Mollie O’Reilly finishing third in 24.14 seconds.

Becker spoke of her delight post-race in claiming the 200m title:

“I’m delighted with that. My first 200m title and an indoor PB to go with it so two boxes ticked and I’m thrilled to have taken the title. I’ve been lacking a little bit of confidence and the 200 really helps my 400 because I’m more of a speed-based athlete, so to know I have that time over 200 will give me plenty of confidence”.

Third national title for Mark Smyth

Raheny Shamrock’s Mark Smyth took a third national indoor title following a titanic tussle with defending champion Marcus Lawler of Clonliffe Harriers. The Raheny clubman held off the strong finishing Lawler to cross the winning time in 21.11 seconds. Lawler was second in 21.24, with Adam Murphy (Tinryland AC) third in 21.68 seconds.

Finals Results

Women’s 200m

1 Sophie BECKER Raheny Shamrock A.C. 23.43

2 Molly DALY Kilkenny City Harriers A.C. 24.07

3 Mollie O`REILLY Dundrum South Dublin A.C. 24.14

Men’s 200m

1 Mark SMYTH Raheny Shamrock A.C. 21.11

2 Marcus LAWLER Clonliffe Harriers A.C. 21.24

3 Adam MURPHY Tinryland A.C. 21.68

Women’s 60mH

1 Sarah LAVIN Emerald A.C. 8.07

2 Katherine O`CONNOR Dundalk St. Gerards A.C. 8.21

3 Orlaith MANNION South Galway A.C. 8.45

Men’s 60mH

1 Adam NOLAN St. Laurence. O’Toole A.C. 8.03

2 Sean CARMODY Leevale A.C. 8.19

3 Ciaran CONNOLLY Le Chéile A.C. 8.45

Women’s High Jump

1 Aoife O’SULLIVAN Liscarroll A.C. 1.75

2 Sommer LECKY Finn Valley A.C. 1.75

3 Lauren DUFFY Bohermeen A.C. 1.65

3 Maeve FLEMING Leevale A.C. 1.65

Men’s High Jump

1 Mohammed IBRAHIM HALIL Raheny Shamrock A.C. 1.93

2 Darragh KELLY Craughwell A.C. 1.90

3 Emmanuel OSAS Ratoath A.C. 1.90

Men’s WFD

1 Michael HEALY Leevale A.C. 9.11 NR

2 David TIERNEY Leevale A.C. 7.99

3 Robert HIGGINS Na Fianna A.C. 7.08

Women’s WFD

1 Kotryna PACERINSKAITE Fanahan Mc Sweeney A.C. 8.70 NR

2 Laura DOLAN Ferbane A.C. 6.46

3 Bridget MC DYER Finn Valley A.C. 6.29

Men’s Triple Jump

1 David ONWUDIWE Ennis Track A.C. 13.96

2 Darragh FAHY Loughrea A.C. 13.94

3 Joseph GILLESPIE Finn Valley A.C. 13.75

Women’s Triple Jump

1 Daphni DOULAPTSI TEEUWEN Raheny Shamrock A.C. 12.54

2 Caoimhe MC DONAGHSouth Sligo A.C. 12.21

3 Anna RYAN Moycarkey Coolcroo A.C. 11.4

Historic Moment for GAA Rounders as Congress Votes Overwhelmingly for Ard Chomhairle Seat

Historic Moment for GAA Rounders as Congress Votes Overwhelmingly for Ard Chomhairle Seat

GAA Rounders has officially secured its place at the top table of the association after an overwhelming vote at GAA Congress 2026.

Motion 2 — proposing the addition of a GAA Rounders representative to Ard Chomhairle — passed with a remarkable 98.3% in favour, with just 1.7% voting against. The motion was submitted by Old Leighlin (Carlow) and represents one of the most significant governance moments in the modern history of the sport.

GAA Congress voting result for Motion 2 showing 98.3% Yes and 1.7% No
Motion 2 passed at GAA Congress with 98.3% support, confirming a Rounders seat on Ard Chomhairle.

For the first time, GAA Rounders will have a direct voice in the room where the biggest decisions are made.

A long-awaited breakthrough

For decades, Rounders has operated under the GAA umbrella without direct representation at Central Council level. While the sport has grown steadily in participation and profile — particularly in recent years — its absence from Ard Chomhairle has often been viewed as a structural gap.

That gap is now closed.

The scale of the vote leaves little ambiguity. A near-unanimous endorsement from delegates signals strong support across the association for recognising Rounders as a fully embedded part of the GAA’s governance framework.

More than symbolic

While the motion itself is short in wording, its implications are substantial.

Having a Rounders representative on Ard Chomhairle ensures the sport will now have a direct voice in discussions around:

  • Governance and constitutional matters
  • Development funding and resources
  • Facilities and long-term planning
  • The strategic direction of the wider association

It also strengthens Rounders’ standing within the GAA ecosystem, particularly at a time when conversations around multi-code inclusion and representation continue to evolve.

A defining Congress moment

Congress 2026 features numerous debates across governance, championships and structural reform, but Motion 2 will stand out as a defining legacy decision.

Unlike many technical rule changes that shape competitions or administration, this vote directly alters the governance landscape of the association. It formally acknowledges Rounders’ place not just within the GAA family, but within its core decision-making structure.

A clear mandate

The strength of the vote matters.

Passing with 98.3% support, the motion moves beyond simple approval into clear mandate territory. It reflects not just acceptance but strong backing from the wider GAA membership.

For those involved in Rounders at club, county and national level, the result is both symbolic and practical — a recognition of the work done to grow the sport and a platform for further development in the years ahead.

What happens next

With the motion now passed, attention will turn to how the Rounders representative is selected and integrated into Ard Chomhairle structures — a process that will likely require formal constitutional and governance steps.

However, the direction is now clear.

For the first time in its history, GAA Rounders will have a seat at the main table of the GAA.

More coverage: Follow SportsNewsIRELAND.com for updates from Congress and what the changes mean for clubs and counties.

Connacht Face Season-Defining Clash as Weakened Glasgow Visit Galway

Screenshot

Connacht’s URC season feels like it’s hanging on a knife edge heading into this one.

Glasgow Warriors arrive in Galway as league leaders, but with Scotland in Six Nations action, this is not a normal Warriors selection — and it turns this fixture into a genuine opportunity for Stuart Lancaster’s side.

On paper it’s top versus mid-table. In reality, the context is doing most of the talking: Glasgow could be without close to 15 frontline players, Connacht are missing Finlay Bealham plus long-term injuries, and the betting line has swung so far that Connacht are around -3 favourites after a season where they’d usually be double-digit underdogs in this match-up.

URC Table Snapshot

  • Glasgow Warriors: 1st — 44 pts from 11 games, +155 PD
  • Connacht: 12th — 21 pts from 10 games, -26 PD

It doesn’t flatter Connacht, but the table is tighter than it looks. A win here keeps the play-off chase alive, especially with Scarlets in two weeks in what becomes a vital mini-block for points.

The Six Nations Factor

Glasgow have been the most consistent side in the URC this season — 44 points, best points difference, and a run that has them looking like champions again. But international windows change everything.

  • Glasgow are expected to be missing ~15 starters due to Scotland duty
  • The handicap has flipped from what would likely be Glasgow -10 in a normal week to Connacht -3
  • Leadership and cohesion are the big risks when you remove a full international spine

They’ll still be structured. They’ll still have threat. But this is the kind of week where depth gets tested properly.

Connacht Recent URC Form

Date Opponent Venue Result F A
29 Nov 2025 Sharks Dexcom Stadium W 44 17
20 Dec 2025 Dragons Rodney Parade L 28 48
27 Dec 2025 Ulster Dexcom Stadium L 24 29
03 Jan 2026 Leinster Aviva Stadium L 17 52
24 Jan 2026 Leinster Dexcom Stadium L 23 34
31 Jan 2026 Zebre Parma Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi W 31 15
  • Connacht have won 2 of their last 6 URC matches
  • The Zebre win (31–15) ended a run of four straight defeats
  • Connacht have lost their last two URC home matches and haven’t lost three in a row at Dexcom Stadium in the Championship since January 2021

Glasgow Recent URC Form

Date Opponent Venue Result F A
29 Nov 2025 Scarlets Parc y Scarlets L 0 23
20 Dec 2025 Edinburgh Hampden Park W 24 12
27 Dec 2025 Edinburgh Scottish Gas Murrayfield W 21 3
03 Jan 2026 Zebre Parma Scotstoun Stadium W 47 10
24 Jan 2026 Zebre Parma Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi W 26 21
30 Jan 2026 Munster Scotstoun Stadium W 31 22
  • Glasgow have won 5 of their last 6 URC matches
  • Their only defeat in that run was 0–23 away to Scarlets
  • They’ve conceded just 91 points across those six matches (avg 15.2 per game)

Recent URC Meetings: Connacht v Glasgow

Date Match Venue Score
22 Feb 2019 Glasgow Warriors v Connacht Scotstoun Stadium 43–17
03 Oct 2020 Connacht v Glasgow Warriors Dexcom Stadium 28–24
29 Jan 2022 Connacht v Glasgow Warriors Dexcom Stadium 20–42
22 Apr 2023 Glasgow Warriors v Connacht Scotstoun Stadium 29–27
28 Oct 2023 Connacht v Glasgow Warriors Dexcom Stadium 34–26
26 Jan 2025 Glasgow Warriors v Connacht Scotstoun Stadium 22–19
  • Connacht’s only win in the last four meetings was 34–26 in Galway in October 2023
  • The last meeting in Scotland was a tight one: Glasgow 22–19 Connacht (January 2025)

URC Era Record

Team Played Wins Win % Losses Draws
Connacht 470 188 40.00% 271 11
Glasgow Warriors 486 275 56.58% 197 14

What It Means for Connacht (and Lancaster)

It’s been a rough first season for Stuart Lancaster results-wise, but the injury context matters. Connacht have been forced to lean on academy players far more than planned, and while that may pay off long-term, the URC table doesn’t wait for development stories.

This game is different. Glasgow are weakened. Connacht are closer to a settled XV than they’ve been in months. That flips the pressure.

With Scarlets coming in two weeks, Connacht need a points haul from this block. Beat Glasgow’s second string at home and you suddenly have a runway. Miss the chance and the season starts slipping away fast.

Key Match Angles

  • Tempo: Connacht should try to play at speed and stretch Glasgow’s combinations
  • Breakdown pressure: less settled Glasgow units can be exposed if Connacht win collisions
  • Game management: Connacht must control exits — Glasgow live off cheap turnover ball

Team News: Connacht Name Strong XV Despite Injury List

Connacht are still dealing with a lengthy injury list, but Stuart Lancaster has been able to name one of his more settled matchday squads in recent weeks.

Unavailable: Finlay Bealham (Ireland), Shayne Bolton (quad), John Devine (foot), Matthew Devine (knee), Oisin Dowling (knee), Hugh Gavin (shoulder), Mack Hansen (foot), David Hawkshaw (groin), Dave Heffernan (calf), Shamus Hurley-Langton (shoulder), Temi Lasisi (knee), Ben Murphy (ribs), Byron Ralston (knee).

There is still a strong look to the starting XV, with captain Paul Boyle leading a pack that includes Denis Buckley and Sean Jansen, while Caolin Blade and Josh Ioane form the half-back pairing.

The midfield sees Cathal Forde continue alongside Harry West, while the back three features Sam Gilbert at full-back with Shane Jennings and Finn Treacy on the wings.

Connacht Matchday Squad

Saturday 28th February, 15:00 — Dexcom Stadium

  • 15. Sam Gilbert
  • 14. Shane Jennings
  • 13. Harry West
  • 12. Cathal Forde
  • 11. Finn Treacy
  • 10. Josh Ioane
  • 9. Caolin Blade
  • 1. Denis Buckley
  • 2. Dylan Tierney-Martin
  • 3. Sam Illo
  • 4. David O’Connor
  • 5. Joe Joyce
  • 6. Paul Boyle (c)
  • 7. Sean O’Brien
  • 8. Sean Jansen

Replacements: Matthew Victory, Billy Bohan, Jack Aungier, Josh Murphy, Cian Prendergast, Colm Reilly, Jack Carty, Bundee Aki.

The bench carries serious experience, with Jack Carty and Bundee Aki providing proven impact options if the game tightens late on.

Prediction

This is the kind of fixture that usually feels like a free swing. Not this week. If Connacht want the play-offs, this is one they have to take.

Connacht by 4–8 points (but only if their set-piece and exits hold up).

 

50 Stats That Explain the First Three Rounds of the 2026 Six Nations

Credit: @IrishRugby.

Three rounds into the 2026 Six Nations and the numbers are already shaping the storylines: France look the most clinical, Scotland the most efficient, England are living off territory, Ireland are still chasing precision, while Wales and Italy have quietly put up some fascinating underlying metrics.

50 Stats That Explain the First Three Rounds of the 2026 Six Nations

Below are 50 stats from the opening three rounds that show what’s working, what’s wobbling, and what might decide the championship run-in.

France: the benchmark (and the risk)

  1. Total metres gained: France lead the tournament with 1,972m.
  2. First-phase tries: France have scored 9, the most in the championship.
  3. 22m efficiency: France convert 40.9% of 22m entries into tries.
  4. Chip kicks: France lead with 11.
  5. Box kicks: France have used 40, second only to Wales.
  6. 50/22 success: France are one of only two teams with a successful 50/22.
  7. Lineout errors: France have a perfect record with 0.
  8. Maul-to-try: France are one of only two teams to convert a maul into a try.
  9. Early momentum: France have scored 3 tries inside the opening 10 minutes.
  10. Turnovers conceded: France have conceded a tournament-high 59.

France look the most dangerous side in the competition — but that turnover count is the one number that can keep others in touching distance.

Ireland: pressure without polish

  1. Scrum offences: Ireland have conceded the most with 12.
  2. Lineout errors: Ireland lead the tournament with 3.
  3. Tackle success: Ireland sit at 75.00%.
  4. Turnovers conceded: Ireland have conceded 43.
  5. Rucks won in opposition 22: Ireland have recorded 30.
  6. 50/22 success: Ireland are one of the two teams to execute one successfully.
  7. Restart retention: Ireland have retained 1 restart kick.
  8. Early momentum: Ireland have scored 2 tries inside the opening 10 minutes.

The underlying pressure is there for Ireland, but set-piece errors and scrum discipline are leaving points on the pitch.

Scotland: efficiency, accuracy, composure

  1. Tackle success: Scotland lead the tournament at 85.22%.
  2. Turnovers conceded: Scotland have conceded 32.
  3. Maul-to-try: Scotland are one of only two teams to convert a maul into a try.
  4. Restart retention: Scotland lead with 2 retained restart kicks.
  5. Chip kicks: Scotland have attempted 5.
  6. Rucks won in opposition 22: Scotland have recorded 12.
  7. Early momentum: Scotland have scored 2 tries inside the opening 10 minutes.

Scotland aren’t topping every “power” category, but their efficiency stats are screaming “hard to beat”.

England: territory kings, ball security worries

  1. Territorial kicking metres: England lead with 2,893m kicked.
  2. Box kicks: England have used 26.
  3. Tackle success: England sit at 79.06%.
  4. Turnovers conceded: England have conceded 56.
  5. Chip kicks: England have attempted 6.
  6. Rucks won in opposition 22: England have recorded 14.
  7. Early momentum: England have scored 2 tries inside the opening 10 minutes.

England are controlling where games are played — but that turnover figure is the red flag.

Wales: high work-rate, strong retention, blunt edge

  1. Box kicks: Wales lead the tournament with 43.
  2. Turnovers conceded: Wales are the best in the championship with just 26.
  3. Rucks won in opposition 22: Wales lead with 33.
  4. Tackle success: Wales sit at 76.37%.
  5. Turnover profile: Wales have conceded 33 fewer turnovers than France (26 vs 59).
  6. Territory approach: Wales are the most committed to contestable-kick pressure (box-kick volume No.1).
  7. Red-zone presence: Wales have spent plenty of time in the 22 (rucks won No.1) but haven’t matched France’s conversion rate.
  8. Ball security: Wales’ retention is better than every other nation after three rounds.

Wales’ numbers suggest a side that can build pressure and keep the ball — the missing piece is turning that work into tries.

Italy: competitive in spells, still chasing cutting edge

  1. 22m efficiency: Italy convert just 16.7% of 22m entries into tries.
  2. Tackle success: Italy sit at 78.86%.
  3. Turnovers conceded: Italy have conceded 52.
  4. Chip kicks: Italy have attempted 3 (lowest in the tournament table shown).
  5. Rucks won in opposition 22: Italy have recorded 13.
  6. Early momentum: Italy have scored 1 try inside the opening 10 minutes.

Italy’s defence is not miles off, but their 22m conversion number explains why strong periods aren’t becoming scoreboard pressure.

Set-piece & discipline: the hidden swing factors

  1. Scrum discipline: Ireland have conceded the most scrum offences (12), while England and Wales are the most disciplined (5 each).
  2. Maul strategy: England have attempted the most mauls (24), but only France and Scotland have converted a maul into a try.
  3. Lineout accuracy: Ireland lead lineout offences (3), while France have made 0 lineout errors.
  4. Defensive danger-zone penalties: Wales have conceded the most in defence (23), closely followed by England (22).

What the numbers really mean after three rounds

France have the most clinical attack, Scotland have the cleanest efficiency profile, England are living off territory, and Ireland’s underlying pressure is being undermined by set-piece and discipline issues.

But don’t ignore Wales and Italy. Wales are leading the tournament for red-zone rucks and ball retention — those are foundations you can build on quickly if the attack clicks. Italy’s conversion rate tells you exactly why they’re not turning competitiveness into wins.

Two rounds remain. If one side improves a single lever — France reducing turnovers, Ireland cleaning up scrum/lineout, or Wales sharpening 22m conversion — the table can still shift fast.

GAA Congress 2026: Historic Weekend as GAA Rounders Set for Seat at the Top Table

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GAA Congress 2026: Historic Weekend as GAA Rounders Set for Seat at the Top Table

This weekend’s GAA Annual Congress in Croke Park could mark one of the most significant moments in the modern history of GAA Rounders. Among the 25 motions set to be debated by delegates, Motion 2 stands out as a landmark proposal — one that would see a GAA Rounders representative formally added to Ard Chomhairle for the first time. If passed, it would finally give Rounders a seat at the main decision-making table of the GAA.
For Rounders, this isn’t a symbolic tweak — it’s a voice in the room where the big decisions get made.

A seat long in the making

Submitted by Old Leighlin (Carlow), Motion 2 proposes expanding the composition of Central Council to include representation from GAA Rounders. While modest in wording, the impact would be profound. Rounders has been part of the GAA for generations, yet unlike football and hurling — and even newer structures within the association — it has operated without direct representation at the highest level of governance. That absence has often been felt in practical ways. Decisions around facilities, development funding, governance structures and long-term planning have historically been made without a dedicated Rounders voice present in the room. A successful vote would immediately change that dynamic. More than symbolism, it would provide Rounders with influence and visibility at the highest level of the association.

Congress agenda: 25 motions, big implications

The GAA’s Annual Congress takes place on Friday and Saturday at Croke Park. A total of 25 motions will be debated and voted on by delegates, submitted from various units including Central Council, the Amateur Status Review Committee, CCCC, the Hurling Development Committee, the Demographics Committee (with the Standing Committee on Playing Rules), Development CCC and the Rules Advisory Committee. Overall, 23 motions are changes to existing rules (requiring more than 60% approval) and two are new rules (needing more than 50% to pass).

Simplified guide: what each motion is about

    • Motion 1: Changes how the five-year rule for county officers is calculated, including a proposed variation to the rule (Meath).
    • Motion 2: Add a GAA Rounders representative to Ard Chomhairle by amending the composition of Central Council (Old Leighlin, Carlow).
    • Motion 3: Redefines “first club” by lowering the age grade from U12 to U10 (Kilteely-Dromkeen).
    • Motion 4: Alters an exception to the “one county per year” championship rule for U21 and younger where a player’s club has no team, allowing them to play with another club rather than an independent team (Kerry).
    • Motion 5: Proposes an inter-county eligibility restriction: to play senior inter-county championship, a player must have played eight club league/championship games the previous year (Clontarf).
    • Motion 6: Seeks to remove All-Ireland SHC preliminary quarter-finals; also proposes changes to the Joe McDonagh Cup format (Laois). (If this passes, Motion 18 won’t be heard.)
    • Motion 7: Fixes All-Ireland minor finals in Croke Park as curtain-raisers to the respective senior finals (Tempo Maguires).
    • Motion 8 (New Rule): Caps the senior inter-county playing season at 30 competitive weekends (31 if an All-Ireland final replay is required) (GPA).
    • Motion 9: Clarifies that match officials shall not be required to attend hearings or give oral evidence/cross-examination (Abbeylara).
    • Motion 10: Clarifies when an appealed decision takes effect — either after the appeal window ends, or after the appeal outcome is issued (Abbeylara).
    • Motion 11: Changes the threshold to call a club special general meeting to 10% of membership or 25 members (whichever is greater) (Castledaly).
    • Motion 12: Updates wording to allow for at least three female appointments on the Management Committee (Central Council).
    • Motion 13: Extends “Winner on the Day” to provincial football finals (currently All-Ireland finals go to replay after extra-time).
    • Motion 14: Moves All-Ireland finals back by two weeks (to on or before the 32nd Sunday of the year), prevents inter-county competitions before the 4th Sunday, and removes pre-season competitions; includes concessions for counties reaching All-Ireland finals.
    • Motion 15 (New Rule): Introduces a certification concept for counties to participate in senior inter-county competitions (Amateur Status Review Committee).
    • Motion 16: Recasts/rewords an existing Amateur Status rule to state what can be done as well as what cannot be done (Amateur Status Review Committee).
    • Motion 17: Addresses New York’s participation in inter-county championships and how that interacts with hurling groups, promotion and relegation.
    • Motion 18: Removes SHC preliminary quarter-finals (CCCC). (Will fall if Motion 6 passes.)
    • Motion 19: Brings dissent rules from football into hurling, with frees advanced 30 metres (rather than 50).
    • Motion 20: Begins a process to develop policy on the definition of a club, giving county committees scope to determine clubs within their counties.
    • Motion 21: Helps smaller rural clubs by allowing county committees to adjust outfield numbers to not below 11 (enabling 12-a-side).
    • Motion 22: Expands the composition of Development CCC and provides authority for annual operational reviews of U17-and-under competitions.
    • Motion 23: Extends Central Council powers to interpret codes as well as rules.
    • Motion 24: Enables counties to use an online system for club transfers.
    • Motion 25: Introduces Central Council guidelines on permanent residency for transfers/eligibility, allowing counties to apply criteria from those guidelines.

Why Motion 2 matters most for Rounders

For GAA Rounders, this is not just another administrative vote. If Motion 2 passes, it’s a meaningful shift in how the sport is represented and heard within the association — visibility, voice and influence at the highest level. In years to come, Congress 2026 could be remembered as the weekend Rounders finally took its place at the main table of the GAA.

Ireland side to play England, Saturday at 2.10pm

Credit: @IrishRugby.

Andy Farrell’s Ireland side take on England in the Guinness Men’s Six Nations at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, on Saturday (Kick-off 2.10pm).

Caelan Doris will lead the Irish team for the Round 3 clash in the English capital, as Ireland bid to build on last Saturday’s defeat of Italy at the Aviva Stadium.

Back 3 unchanged

Jamie Osborne, Robert Baloucoune and James Lowe are named in an unchanged back three.

Stuart McCloskey and Garry Ringrose continue in midfield, while Munster’s Jack Crowley comes in at out-half to partner Jamison Gibson-Park in the half-backs.

Jeremy Loughman, Dan Sheehan and Tadhg Furlong are selected in the front row. Joe McCarthy and James Ryan are retained in the engine room. Tadhg Beirne, Josh van der Flier and captain Doris will play in the back row.

Experienced Irish bench

Farrell has named an experienced bench with Rónan Kelleher, Tom O’Toole, Finlay Bealham, Nick Timoney and Jack Conan making up the forward replacements.

The backs named in the Match Day 23 are Craig Casey, Ciaran Frawley and Tommy O’Brien.

Speaking ahead of this weekend’s clash, Head Coach Andy Farrell admitted

“Games between the two sides have been nip and tuck over recent times and there’s great familiarity and respect across both camps. We know their strengths and our aim is to deliver the best version of ourselves to put us in a position to get the performance that we want.”

Live on RTÉ TV and Radio

Saturday’s game will be broadcast live on RTÉ2 and ITV, with live radio commentary available on RTÉ Radio 1.

Ireland Team

15. Jamie Osborne, 14. Robert Baloucoune, 13. Garry Ringrose, 12. Stuart McCloskey,    11. James Lowe, 10. Jack Crowley, 9. Jamison Gibson-Park.

1. Jeremy Loughman, 2. Dan Sheehan, 3. Tadhg Furlong, 4. Joe McCarthy, 5. James Ryan,
6. Tadhg Beirne, 7. Josh van der Flier, 8. Caelan Doris (captain).

Ireland Replacements

16. Rónan Kelleher, 17. Tom O’Toole, 18. Finlay Bealham, 19. Nick Timoney, 20. Jack Conan, 21. Craig Casey, 22. Ciaran Frawley, 23. Tommy O’Brien.

Ben Lynch takes 8th place at Winter Olympics

Team Ireland freestyle half-pipe skiier Ben Lynch during the Milano Cortina 2026 content capture day ahead of the Winter Olympic Games in Bolzano, Italy. Credit: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile. Image provided by Olympic Federation of Ireland.

Ben Lynch has finished in eighth place in the Finals of the Men’s Freestyle Skiing Halfpipe at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics in Livigno on Friday night.

The Irishman posted an impressive score of 75.00 in the final run of the event. Lynch’s result marks one of the strongest Olympic performances by an Irish winter athlete to date.

Alex Ferreira of the United States won gold in the men’s freestyle skiing halfpipe competition with a score of 93.75. The US Olympian completed his Olympic medal set having previously won silver (2018) and bronze (2022). Silver went to Henry Sildaru from Estonia with a best score of 93.00, while Brendan Mackay of Canada claimed bronze with a 91.00 third run.

Lynch “couldn’t be more happy”

Reflecting on the significance of tonight’s result, Ben Lynch said:

“It feels really cool, especially because eight is my lucky number. My birthday is September 8th. I got eight stitches above my eyebrow here, so eight has always been my lucky number and the fact that I just got eight, the stars align.

“It definitely still feels surreal, but it’s sinking in a little bit. Yeah, it’s pretty cool because my last best result was 16, so I have that at the Olympics and couldn’t be more happy to be here.”

Pivotal third run

Lynch’s third run was his pivotal one, putting him right up the score board, as he explained:

“The third run, I was really nervous at the top. I felt very prepared, but obviously the nerves were on. My family’s here, everyone was watching, and I hadn’t landed my first two runs. But yeah, just tried really hard to focus on the run, not worry about the result, and I ended up landing it pretty much as good as I possibly could have, and I’m really, really excited.

“I think before this, I’d only gotten around the sixties in World Cups. It’s hard to get high scores in world level, world Cup level, but yeah, that’s the best score I’ve ever gotten. I also got down qualifier 75, so just so stoked.”

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