Dave Kilcoyne: Ryan Baird brings X Factor for Ireland

Making a first start against England, Maro Itoje and all, this weekend is not too big an ask for Baird, says Kilcoyne

Ryan Baird at Ireland squad training. The Leinster man impressed after coming on as a substitute in Sunday’s Six Nations win over Scotland and the 21-year-old charged down an Ali Price kick in the Scotland 22, which led to the winning penalty kick. Picture: Inpho/Dan Sheridan

Dave Kilcoyne would have no qualms about Ryan Baird’s readiness to step into James Ryan’s boots if the Ireland rookie is selected to face England this Saturday.

Ryan and Garry Ringrose have both been ruled out of the final game of the 2021 Guinness Six Nations against a rejuvenated England side in Dublin, each of them suffering for Sunday’s 27-24 victory over Scotland at Murrayfield.