Jonny Sexton ‘getting back towards best’

Jonny Sexton reckons he is getting back to his best form just in time for the start of Ireland’s Six Nations title defence.

The Leinster fly-half has endured an up-and-down campaign since returning to the province after his spell in France with Racing 92. Sexton, 30, admits it took him time to get over the disappointment of Ireland’s World Cup quarter-final exit at the hands of Argentina, particularly as he could only helplessly watch from the sidelines after suffering a groin strain in the win over France.

His performances in the wake of the tournament came in for criticism, particularly an off-colour showing in Leinster’s Champions Cup defeat to holders Toulon last month.