Ireland eschew drastic changes for Six Nations defence after World Cup setback

Ireland have won 29 of their last 32 Test matches under head coach Andy Farrell (Damien Eagers/PA)

Ireland begin the Guinness Six Nations as reigning Grand Slam champions but on the back of familiar World Cup quarter-final disappointment.

Head coach Andy Farrell has kept faith with 26 of the 33 players who ultimately suffered a last-eight defeat to New Zealand in France less than four months ago as he opts for evolution over revolution.