Paddy Jackson has still to play one minute of Six Nations rugby this year, but his Ulster colleague Andrew Trimble believes the out-half is nonetheless well down the road to reaching the standards of Ireland playmaker Jonathan Sexton.

For all the trials and tribulations Joe Schmidt experienced in narrowing his World Cup squad down to the requisite 31, at least we have a good idea who will be in his starting XV.

Joe Schmidt’s hopes of a grand unveiling of his World Cup squad today were scuppered after his 31-man panel apparently leaked across the media last night.

Tighthead prop Tadhg Furlong and centre Darren Cave look to be the surprise inclusions.

Ireland international wingers Tommy Bowe and Andrew Trimble start for Ulster in the pre-season game against Edinburgh at Goldenacre tonight (6:30).

Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt hopes Andrew Trimble’s foot sprain will not end his World Cup hopes.

The trimming has begun.

“Nobody thinks now about the 2014 Six Nations — except me, of course!” jokes Ulster and Ireland winger Andrew Trimble, at last confirming himself ready, willing and healthy to return to rugby after an injury-ravaged year.

“I hope to be back playing soon and will be aiming to put myself in the frame for selection for Ulster and Ireland over the coming months."

Rugby fans got more than the bargained for recently when Ireland and Ulster star Andrew Trimble was exposed by fellow player Dave Kearney.