Jack Conan steps up to the plate for Ireland just as CJ Stander steps away

Jack Conan’s talent is not in doubt but events, injuries among them, have held him back.

Ireland's Jack Conan scores a try despite Luke Cowan-Dickie and Tom Curry of England. Picture: INPHO/James Crombie

Andy Farrell made six changes for Saturday’s game against England but it was the choice of Jack Conan at No 8 that came from left-field.

It was a curveball of a choice that landed in the catcher’s glove before anyone had a chance to swing at it.