Size and scale of Ireland’s next challenge self-evident

After only two rounds of action, this year’s Six Nations championship has already taken on the appearance of a two-horse race — notwithstanding Wales’ right to dispute that.

Ireland and England are the only unbeaten sides left, which makes the round three head to head on March 1 at the Aviva Stadium a fascinating encounter.

Saturday against France wasn’t a great game — our old friend referee Wayne Barnes saw to that, with a never-ending stream of penalties to halt any semblance of continuity — but it was a great result.