Donal Lenihan: Ruthlessness must be Ireland's mission statement against Italy

Donal Lenihan previews the key areas for Ireland in Rome, including some half back extremities and the Irish attacking template

MY BALL: The clash with Italy is a great opportunity for Craig Casey to win his first cap. Donal Lenihan would be amazed if the Limerick man doesn’t feature in the final quarter in Rome. Picture: Ryan Bailey

1. Ruthless efficiency from start to finish

LET’S cut straight to the point here. Italy have lost their last 29 Six Nations games on the trot and, despite showing noticeable improvements in attack against France and England, do not look anywhere near reversing their six-year losing steak in this tournament.