As Farrell prepares to take charge of the British and Irish Lions this summer in Australia, defence coach Simon Easterby will take charge of the side during the Six Nations.

Furlong has not made their addition to the family public across social media.

Aki has won three Six Nations titles with Ireland, including two Grand Slams, and in 2023 was nominated for the World Rugby Men’s XVs Player of the Year award.

Former Ireland rugby international Brendan Mullin has pleaded not guilty to one count of stealing €500,000 from a Bank of Ireland (BOI) Private Bank, along with eight other counts of stealing various amounts of money.

The break was welcome for Van der Flier, who had some time off after a long 2023/2024 season.

Performance guru Nucifora joins Scotland set-up

Carlow's Stephen Smyth has been named in the Ireland team for the World Rugby U20 Championship third place play-off against New Zealand in Cape Town

England end Irish Grand Slam hopes

The 25-year-old will miss Ireland's Six Nations campaign, as Andy Farrell's side aim to win back-to back Grand Slams.