O'Mahony returns as Ireland name squad for Scotland clash

Ireland have made key changes to their squad for Sunday’s highly anticipated Six Nations encounter against Scotland at Murrayfield.

Back-row veteran Peter O’Mahony and centre Robbie Henshaw have been recalled to the starting lineup as Ireland look to continue their pursuit of a historic third consecutive championship title.

O’Mahony, a former captain, has been restored to the starting XV after missing out on last weekend’s 27-22 victory over England. He takes the place of Ryan Baird at blindside flanker, bringing his wealth of experience to the forward pack.

In the midfield, Henshaw partners Bundee Aki, with Garry Ringrose dropping to the bench. This change adds further defensive solidity and attacking options as Ireland prepares to face a determined Scottish side.

Tighthead prop Finlay Bealham and wing Mack Hansen have both been passed fit to start after dealing with leg injuries.

Sam Prendergast retains his place at fly-half, with Jack Crowley once again named among the replacements after a strong impact off the bench against England.

Ulster lock Iain Henderson is left out of the matchday squad as O’Mahony’s return reshapes the team’s forward pack. Meanwhile, veteran loosehead prop Cian Healy is set to surpass Brian O’Driscoll as Ireland’s most-capped player in the men’s Six Nations if he comes off the bench for what would be his 66th appearance in the competition.

Ireland has enjoyed a commanding record over Scotland in recent years, winning 14 of the last 15 meetings, including 10 consecutive victories.

Their dominance extends to crucial fixtures such as the title-deciding 17-13 win in Dublin last year and two pool-stage triumphs over Scotland in the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups.

Interim head coach Simon Easterby emphasized the challenge posed by Scotland, acknowledging their strong performances in the Autumn Nations Series and a convincing bonus-point win over Italy in their Six Nations opener.

"Sunday’s game presents a significant challenge against a Scotland side that had a very good Autumn Nations Series and have started the Six Nations with a positive bonus-point win over Italy," Easterby stated.

"We have taken confidence from the win over England this week and there are undoubtedly areas for improvement. Selection was a real challenge again, which reinforces the competition for places.

"As we approach round two, it’s about improvement and building momentum. We know that we will need to start the game strongly and meet their physical challenge."

Ireland starting XV: 15. Hugo Keenan, 14. Mack Hansen, 13. Robbie Henshaw, 12. Bundee Aki, 11. James Lowe, 10. Sam Prendergast, 9. Jamison Gibson-Park; 1. Andrew Porter, 2. Rónan Kelleher, 3. Finlay Bealham, 4. James Ryan, 5. Tadhg Beirne, 6. Peter O'Mahony, 7. Josh van der Flier, 8. Caelan Doris (captain).

Reserves: 16. Dan Sheehan, 17. Cian Healy, 18. Thomas Clarkson, 19. Ryan Baird, 20. Jack Conan, 21. Conor Murray, 22. Jack Crowley, 23. Garry Ringrose.