Joe Schmidt will have Ian Keatley well versed for opener in Rome

1 Authority at half-back.

Joe Schmidt will have Ian Keatley well versed for opener in Rome

With that crucial box ticked, Joe Schmidt prioritised strengthening his new midfield combination and improving the efficiency of Ireland’s scrum.

Sexton’s issues with concussion changed that focus somewhat and then the problem was compounded when Murray sustained a neck injury after running into one of his own players.

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