Rugged Romania to face Ireland

Ireland can expect a bruising forward battle at Lansdowne Road on Saturday after Romania named a pack made up entirely of French-based professionals.

Agen lock Sorin Socol will lead the Romanians’ assault up front, with Biarritz prop Petru Balan, Pau openside Alexandru Manta and Perpignan number eight Ovidiu Tonita also featuring in a rugged-looking forward line-up.