Ireland’s bright start and bristling intent from the kick-off was gave an early indication that there was only going to be a home win in Dublin on Sunday.

Toulouse’s new captain Julien Marchand is hoping to crown a week where he was called into the French senior squad for the first time by ousting European champions Leinster on Sunday.

Nacewa was the Leinster hero in his final game for the province.

I want Munster to win. That’s where I am from. Home is always home. Where the heart is. But there’s a deep feeling there for guys who will be playing in blue and white as well, writes Ronan O’Gara

For all the unpredictably that comes with a Six Nations trip to Paris, there will be certain lessons learned over the past two championships that should put Ireland in control of their destiny when they face a France side under new management.

French giants Stade Francais and Racing 92 will merge next season, forming an “absolute monster” Top 14 Paris super club.

Mathieu Bastareaud will miss France's RBS 6 Nations clash with Ireland due to concussion.

France have called up Stade Français back-row Raphael Lakafia to replace Damien Chouly ahead of Saturday’s Six Nations clash with Ireland.

Ronan O'Gara says Conor Murray is right to be peeved. 

Simon Lewis compares the sides ahead of Sunday’s Champions Cup opener.

Whether it was a brave face or genuine optimism from Rassie Erasmus this week, the feelgood vibes emanating from Munster’s director of rugby ahead of tomorrow’s Champions Cup opener in Paris could evaporate in a heartbeat if his side fails to rise to the occasion.

From where Munster was 18 months ago, things looked and felt a whole lot more positive from where I was sitting Tuesday night, writes Ronan O’Gara

France head coach Guy Noves will seek considerable improvements from his new team’s opening RBS 6 Nations win over Italy as he prepares for this Saturday’s visit of defending champions Ireland.