Ryan and Reddan back in the frame but in-form Zebo fails to make cut

Simon Zebo’s try-scoring form since his return from a foot injury this last two weeks hasn’t been enough to force his way into Joe Schmidt’s extended panel for Saturday’s Six Nations tie against England.

The Munster flyer has scored three tries in two games against Cardiff and Zebre since regaining full fitness and, though both opponents were far from stellar, they served as reminders of the player’s abilities, especially given Tommy Bowe and Luke Fitzgerald’s continued inactivity.

Instead, Schmidt has gone for Fergus McFadden again to serve as cover for Andrew Trimble and Dave Kearney, both of whom have been in superb form in the opening games.