Schmidt provides crucial ‘X factor’ for Ireland

A fresh start, a new beginning. That is the beauty of a Six Nations campaign. Regardless of what has happened in the recent past — in Ireland’s case, that heartbreaking defeat to New Zealand in November, following on from our lowest finish in a Six Nations last season — the next seven weeks is full of opportunity.

Ireland’s prospects and reasons for optimism can be summed up in two words: Joe Schmidt.

The form and fortunes of the national team have oscillated from the sublime to the ridiculous since the Grand Slam-winning season five years ago but early indications suggest that the man to deliver clarity, stability, much-needed consistency and a true reflection of the talent available to the national squad is the former Leinster coach.