Donal Lenihan: Six Nations injuries force Andy Farrell to rethink Ireland’s depth and loyalty

Injuries, emerging talent and selection risk collide as Ireland, France and England shape a defining Six Nations championship.

Ireland's Caelan Doris and Head Coach Andy Farrell pictured beside the Six Nations trophy. Pic: Gary Carr/Inpho

As the fallout from Munster’s failure to make the knockout phase of Champions Cup rugby continues, the arrival of another potentially mouthwatering Six Nations campaign could not be better timed.

The Irish squad decamped to training camp in Portugal on Monday with the narrative centered on a deepening injury list that may prove a major hindrance in the short term but with potential long-term benefits if it adds to Ireland’s depth chart.