The Left Wing

2,000 Munster fans have made the long trip to South Africa for their URC final against the Stormers on Saturday, but what can the Irish fans expect come the final whistle? Rúaidhrí O’Connor is in Cape Town and he joins Sinéad Kissane on the Left Wing podcast with the latest team news and insights from the camp. Calvin Nash, Malakai Fekitoa and Conor Murray have all been recalled to the starting XV with RG Snyman kept on the bench for the clash against the Stormers and despite the tough task ahead, Rúaidhrí reckons Munster have it in them to go all the way.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing podcast, Will Slattery, Luke Fitzgerald and Cian Tracey look back on Saturday's Champions Cup final. In one of the greatest finals ever, Leinster lost out by a point as La Rochelle made it two in a row at the Aviva Stadium. Leinster blew a 17-point lead and there are plenty of questions about the squad's mental strength after another Champions Cup collapse. La Rochelle's brilliance, the impact the defeat could have on Ireland's World Cup campaign and whether Ross Byrne should have attempted a late drop goal are all up for discussion. The lads then finish up with a look ahead to Munster's URC final against the Stormers. Sinéad Kissane and Rúaidhrí O’Connor will be back on Friday to preview Munster’s URC final against the Stormers plus they’ll have the post-match analysis right after the final whistle on Saturday. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @RuaidhriOC and @SinéadKissane.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After 12 minutes of the Champions Cup final surely no one saw this coming. Leinster were 17-0 up and cruising but somehow they snatched defeat from such a strong position. Rúaidhrí O’Connor joins Sinéad Kissane from the Aviva Stadium right after the final whistle to dissect where it all went wrong for Leinster who finish this season empty-handed and with more question marks over their mentality than ever before. Don’t forget to join Luke Fitzgerald and Will Slattery on Wednesday for their in-depth review and if you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @RuaidhriOC and @SinéadKissane. Listen and follow on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts from.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With twelve changes to the Leinster team that were beaten by Munster in last week’s URC semi-final, Leo Cullen has named as strong a starting XV as expected, but will it be enough to depose their conquerors of the last two seasons, La Rochelle? Cian Tracey joins Sinéad Kissane on the latest Left Wing podcast to go through the Leinster team and bench and although home advantage will be huge, he cautions that this version of La Rochelle is even better than last year and thinks that might be the difference. Don’t forget to join Sinéad and Rúaidhrí O’Connor for the post-match show from the Aviva stadium tomorrow right after the final whistle while Luke Fitzgerald and Will Slattery will have their weekly in-depth analysis on Wednesday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing podcast, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by former Leinster and Ireland star Dan Leavy to preview the Champions Cup final. Leinster vs La Rochelle is a rematch a year in the making and the lads discuss the key tactical battles, selection issues and coaching decisions that could dictate the outcome. They also look back on Munster's dramatic URC semi-final win over Leinster, with Luke critical of Leo Cullen's team selection. Dan also talks about his life after rugby following his retirement last year. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @RuaidhriOC and @SinéadKissane.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing podcast, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Jonathan Bradley to look back on the URC quarter-finals. They kick things off with a post-mortem on Ulster's season after their disappointing home defeat to Connacht. Where do Ulster go from here and is head coach Dan McFarland the right man to lead them forward? Luke and Jonathan then pay tribute to Connacht's great win and the job Andy Friend has done as the head coach before his departure at the end of the current campaign. The lads finish things with a look ahead to Leinster vs Munster in the URC semi-finals - what team will Leo Cullen pick and can Graham Rowntree's men spring an upset? If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing podcast, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Rúaidhrí O'Connor with an in-depth review of Leinster's big win over Toulouse and the areas where the French giants fell short. The chat then turns to how Leo Cullen should select his team for the challenges to come ahead of the final in three weeks' time - should he rotate his squad or go with his strongest team? Luke lauds Ronan O'Gara's coaching ability after La Rochelle booked their place in a third consecutive Champions Cup final. Munster's URC quarter-final clash with Glasgow, Ulster and Connacht's showdown and Greg McWilliams' Ireland exit are all up for discussion too. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

0 points, 5 heavy defeats, and the worst points difference in their history in the Six Nations, what does the future hold for the Irish women’s rugby team? After the team’s fifth and final defeat to Scotland over the weekend, Anna Caplice and Ali Donnelly join Sinéad Kissane on the latest Left Wing podcast to discuss the result and the wider issue for Irish women’s rugby. Never mind England or France, it is Wales, Scotland and Italy who must be caught up with and the 2023 Six Nations must prove to be the tipping point going forwards. On the next episode of the Left Wing on Wednesday, Will and Luke will have their in-depth discussion of the rugby week and if you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Leinster team to face Toulouse in their Champions Cup semi-final on Saturday has been named and a late injury sees Robbie Henshaw joining Johnny Sexton and James Lowe on the sidelines. Rúaidhrí O’Connor is with Sinéad Kissane on the latest Left Wing podcast to go through the starting XV, he discusses why All Black Charlie Ngatai has come in for Henshaw and why he thinks the advantage now rests with Toulouse. Don’t forget to join Luke Fitzgerald for his in-depth review of the game on next Wednesday’s show, while Anna Caplice and Ali Donnelly will be with Sinéad on Monday to look back on the Irish Women’s final Six Nations game against Scotland. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Cian Tracey to look ahead to Leinster vs Toulouse. The Aviva Stadium hosts a battle between the two most successful teams in Champions Cup history on Saturday and the lads discuss what Leinster need to do to come out on the right side of the result. Leo Cullen's selection dilemmas, Leinster's heavy defeat to the Bulls and Munster's heroics in South Africa are all up for discussion too. On the next episode of the Left Wing on Monday, Anna Caplice and Ali Donnelly will be looking back on the Ireland Women’s 2023 Six Nations campaign. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re down to the final week of the Women’s Six Nations and it has been a tournament loaded with reality checks and harsh lessons for Ireland. After their 48-0 defeat to England at Musgrave Park, Ireland play Scotland in Edinburgh on Saturday evening bottom of the table on zero points. Former Ireland player Anna Caplice and Ali Donnelly of Scrumqueens.com join Sinéad Kissane to discuss another chastening weekend for the Irish women’s rugby team, plus they also discuss the protest at Musgrave Park and the confiscation of fliers by security staff with the image of ‘I Give an F’ on them. On the next episode of the Left Wing on Wednesday, Will and Luke will have their in-depth discussion of the rugby week and if you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Cian Tracey to pick through all the talking points from the latest round of URC action. There is the big news that Springbok head coach Jacques Nienaber will replace Stuart Lancaster in the Leinster set-up next season - it's certainly a big statement but is it a good fit style wise? Munster also got their season back on track with an impressive win in South Africa - is it too late in the campaign for them to really go for silverware? The possibility of an orange card being introduced for the Rugby World Cup is also up for debate, and the lads have strong views on whether it would be a good thing. On the next episode of the Left Wing, Sinéad will be back on Monday, joined by Anna Caplice and Ali Donnelly, to look back on Ireland Women’s Six Nations clash against England and if you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s no end to the run of deflating defeats for Ireland in this Women’s Six Nations. They were beaten by Italy 24 points to 7 in Parma on Saturday which was just the second time that Ireland have lost to Italy in the Women’s Six Nations. It’s three games, three defeats, no points on the board and they have England up next at Musgrave Park this weekend. Former Ireland player, Anna Caplice, and Ali Donnelly of Scrumqueens.com join Sinéad Kissane to discuss how Ireland can pick themselves up and prepare for England. On the next episode of the Left Wing on Wednesday, Will and Luke will have their in-depth discussion of rugby week and if you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing podcast, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Jonathan Bradley from the Belfast Telegraph to discuss all the latest Champions Cup action. Leinster advanced to the Champions Cup semi-final in style after thrashing Leicester on Good Friday, with Leicester coach Richard Wigglesworth making waves with his comments about the Irish side's budget. Luke and Jonathan give their view on the comments, which came a week after Ulster coach Dan McFarland made reference to Leinster's 'demographic' advantage in Ireland. Elsewhere, the South African teams' impact on the Champions Cup and Ulster's end of season chances are up for discussion too. On the next episode of the Left Wing, Sinead will be back on Monday and joined by Anna Caplice and Ali Donnelly to look back on Ireland Women’s Six Nations clash against Italy and if you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Rúaidhrí O'Connor look ahead to the Champions Cup quarter-finals. Leinster have named their team to face Leicester and the big talking point is Caelan Doris getting the seven jersey for the first time. That means that despite his strong form, Scott Penny has to settle for a place on the bench - what does he have to do to get a start? The pressure on Dan Sheehan to stay fit and the impressive showing by the Stormers and Sharks are topics of discussion too. On the next episode of the Left Wing, Will and Luke Fitzgerald will be back with their in-depth analysis on Wednesday and if you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing podcast, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Cian Tracey to look back on the Champions Cup action. Leinster marched on to the quarter-finals after sweeping Ulster aside and the gap between Leo Cullen's men and the rest of the Irish provinces has never looked bigger. What can the other Irish teams do to close the gap? While Ulster didn't fire a shot against Leinster, Munster had a similarly disappointing day in South Africa after conceding 50 points to the Sharks. Can Munster turn things around between now and the end of the season? The Left Wing will be back on Thursday with the Champions Cup quarter-final team news ahead of Leinster’s Good Friday clash against Leicester, and if you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After the opening two-week block of the Women’s Six Nations finished with, it doesn’t make for pretty reading for Ireland. After a record margin defeat to France at Musgrave Park, 53 points to 3, Ireland are bottom of the table on points difference with zero points. They’ve a week off and then are away to Italy, home to England and finish away to Scotland. So how can Ireland pick themselves up and where do they go from here? Former international, Anna Caplice, and Ali Donnelly of Scrumqueens.com join Sinéad Kissane to discuss. Don’t forget to join Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald for their weekly in-depth rugby discussion on Wednesday, while there will also be a Champions Cup preview show on Thursday. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s back to Europe for the Irish players and the provinces this weekend with the round of 16 in the Champions Cup and Sinéad Kissane is joined by Rúaidhrí O’Connor on the latest Left Wing podcast to go through the team news and preview the Sharks v Munster, Leinster v Ulster, and Benetton v Connacht in the Challenge Cup. Sinéad will be back on Monday to review the Ireland Women’s Six Nations clash against France with Anna Caplice and Ali Donnelly while Will and Luke Fitzgerald will have their in-depth analysis on Wednesday. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Cian Tracey to look ahead to the Champions Cup last 16. They kick things off by discussing the injury to Johnny Sexton and whether Leinster can still win the Champions Cup without the star out-half. Talk then turns towards this weekend, with Leinster taking on Ulster at the Aviva Stadium and Munster making a daunting trip to Durban to face the Sharks in South Africa. Finally, Cian and Luke give their views on the state of the Ireland women's team after their heavy defeat to Wales in the Six Nations. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC. The Left Wing will be back at the end of the week with the team news ahead of the Champions Cup weekend, while Sinéad Kissane, Anna Caplice and Ali Donnelly will have another episode on Monday looking back on the Ireland Women’s Six Nations game against France.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was a pretty sobering opening Women’s Six Nations defeat for Ireland as they were over-powered by Wales losing 31-5. To discuss where the team goes from here, Sinéad Kissane is joined by former Ireland flanker, Anna Caplice, and Ali Donnelly of Scrumqueens.com. Will and Luke will also be back on Wednesday for their latest in-depth discussion of the week’s biggest talking points. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or on Twitter @SinéadKissane.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s two Six Nations down, two Grand Slams won for Ireland and this weekend is the start of the Women’s Six Nations. Ireland play Wales at Cardiff Arms Park in their opening game on Saturday with a 2.15 kick-off and previewing Ireland’s chances in the game and the rest of the tournament, Sinéad Kissane is joined by Anna Caplice, former Ireland flanker, and Ali Donnelly of Scrumqueens.com. There have been changes since Ireland finished fourth in the table in the 2022 edition after that dramatic and late win over Scotland in Belfast in round 5. There’s been the introduction of contracts for 15s players, some high-profile players turned down those contracts, there’s been a first ever summer tour with the trip to Japan, new additions to the coaching team and changes in player personnel. So, what can we expect from Ireland in this tournament? Join Sinéad, Anna and Ali on Monday as they discuss all the weekend results.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Cian Tracey to look back on Ireland's Grand Slam triumph. Luke and Cian break down why Ireland won on Saturday - and why there were some nervy moments at the Aviva Stadium. The lads look back on the entire campaign, discuss the World Cup threat posed by France and ask whether there are enough opportunities for Ireland's U-20 stars at club level. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

They’ve done it. After all the hype, pressure and adversity, this Ireland team overcame the last hurdle in front of them and beat England 29-16 to win the Grand Slam for the first time ever in Dublin. For this special post-match episode, Sinéad Kissane is joined by Rúaidhrí O’Connor and Cian Tracey at the Aviva to get their reaction and analysis in the aftermath of an emotional evening. You’ll also hear from Ryan Baird, Josh van der Flier and Ross Byrne who, after the final whistle, tried to put into words what it all meant to them. Don’t forget to join Will and Luke for their in-depth review of the Six Nations Grand Slam on Wednesday and if you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by former England international Alex Corbisiero to look ahead to Saturday's Grand Slam decider. England enter into the game as massive underdogs off the back of a record home defeat to France and the pressure is mounting on new coach Steve Borthwick. Alex gives his assessment on where England are at after a poor Six Nations campaign and outlines the areas they must improve for the game against Ireland. When it comes to predictions, both Luke and Alex think Ireland will complete just their fourth-ever Grand Slam at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday. Don’t forget to join Sinéad, Cian and Rud who will have a show after the final whistle from the Aviva where we’re all hoping it’s a historic Grand Slam being celebrated. If you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s three changes to the Ireland team for their final push towards a fourth Grand Slam with Caelan Doris and Dan Sheehan declared fit and Jamison Gibson-Park partnering Johnny Sexton, with Conor Murray dropping to the bench. Cian Tracey joins Sinéad Kissane to analyse the Irish starting XV and what we can expect on Saturday. On Friday, Will and Luke talk to the former England international, Alex Corbisiero while Sinead, Cian and Rud will have a show after the final whistle from the Aviva where we’re all hoping it’s an historic Grand Slam being celebrated. If you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald look back on Ireland's win over Scotland and discuss the mental preparation for Saturday's Grand Slam decider with former Ireland performance coach Enda McNulty. Luke kicks things off with his assessment of Ireland's impressive win over Scotland before Enda joins the lads to give his insights into working with Ireland under Joe Schmidt. The pressure of performing at the highest level, the difference between Schmidt and Andy Farrell's setup and the fallout to the 2019 World Cup are all topics of discussion during an interesting chat with Enda. Don’t forget to join us on Thursday for the team news announcement while the post-match show from the Aviva on Saturday will see Sinéad, Cian and Rúaidhrí analyse what one hopes will be a historic day in Dublin. If you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Andy Farrell’s team look to complete a Grand Slam when they play England at the Aviva stadium on Saturday, the Left Wing wants to celebrate another Grand Slam. It’s 10 years ago this week since the Ireland women’s team won their first ever Slam. A 6-3 win over Italy in Milan on Paddy’s Day in 2013 saw this group of players do something no Irish women’s team has done before. So this is a special podcast to celebrate that achievement. Captain of that team Fiona Coghlan, centre Lynne Cantwell and head coach Philip ‘Goose’ Doyle joined Sinéad Kissane to look back on that historic campaign. On Wednesday, Will and Luke will be joined by Alex Corbisiero and former Irish rugby team sports psychologist, Enda McNulty. There will then be a team news episode with the latest on the Ireland XV named to face England on Thursday, while the post-match show from the Aviva on Saturday will see Sinéad, Cian and Rud analyse what one hopes will be a historic day in Dublin. Join us for all the coverage throughout the week on the Left Wing podcast and if you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Garry Ringrose and Iain Henderson will be missing from the Ireland squad to face England in their Grand Slam decider this Saturday due to injuries suffered against Scotland. Rúaidhrí O’Connor joins Sinéad Kissane with the latest squad update on the latest Left Wing podcast and explains that Caelan Doris (hip) and hookers Dan Sheehan and Ronan Kelleher (both shoulder) have remained in camp and have not been ruled out of contention for the game. Andy Farrell has called up Leinster lock Ross Molony and Ulster hooker Tom Stewart as cover ahead of the England game. Don’t forget, there’s a special 10 year anniversary episode on Tuesday looking back on the Irish Women’s Grand Slam in 2013, while on Wednesday, Will and Luke will be joined by Alex Corbisiero and former Irish rugby team sports psychologist, Enda McNulty. There will then be a team news episode with the latest on the Ireland XV named to face England on Thursday, while the post-match show from the Aviva on Saturday will either be a party or a wake after Ireland’s final Six Nations game this year. Join us for all the coverage throughout the week on the Left Wing podcast and if you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s just no stopping Ireland in this Six Nations no matter what’s thrown at them. The Grand Slam is just one win away for Ireland, they’ve beaten Scotland 22 points to 7 and Cian Tracey joins Sinéad Kissane from Murrayfield with the post-match analysis. Plus, don’t miss all the build-up to the final game decider against England with Sinéad and Rúaidhrí O'Connor back on Monday with a squad update which will give some insights into all the injuries suffered from the Scottish encounter. There’s a special 10 year anniversary episode on Tuesday looking back on the Irish Women’s Grand Slam in 2013, while on Wednesday, Will and Luke will be joined by Alex Corbisiero and former Irish rugby sports psychologist, Enda McNulty. There will then be a team news episode with the latest on the Ireland XV named to face England on Thursday, while the post-match show from the Aviva on Saturday will either be a party or a wake after Ireland’s final Six Nations game this year. Join us for all the coverage throughout the week on the Left Wing podcast and if you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andy Farrell has named his team to play Scotland in Murrayfield on Sunday and Rúaidhrí O’Connor joins Sinéad Kissane on the latest Left Wing podcast to discuss the line-up. There are six changes overall to the team that started against Italy. Johnny Sexton and Garry Ringrose return. Tadhg Furlong will make his first appearances of this Six Nations. Conor Murray starts at scrumhalf, Jamison Gibson Park is on the bench as is Robbie Henshaw who’re both set to feature for the first time in this 6 Nations. Don’t forget to join Sinéad, Rúaidhrí and Cian Tracey for the post-match analysis show from Murrayfield right after the final whistle. If you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery is joined by BBC Scotland journalist Andy Burke to look ahead to Sunday's Six Nations clash at Murrayfield. Despite overseeing a number of big scalps against England and France during his tenure, Gregor Townsend has never beaten Ireland as Scotland head coach. Andy thinks Ireland's physicality has been a major problem for Scotland and they must match up on Sunday in that area to have a chance of winning. One player who will be key for Scotland is Finn Russell; Andy breaks down his interesting relationship with Townsend, which has seen the two fall out on a number of occasions. Scotland's 'arrogance', their strong centre partnership and their use of project players is all up for discussion too. Join Sinéad Kissane and Cian Tracey with the next Left Wing on Friday when they will have the latest team news and don’t forget there’s our post-match analysis show from Murrayfield right after the final whistle. If you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Continuing the Left Wing’s countdown to Sunday’s Six Nations game between Scotland and Ireland, Sinéad Kissane spoke to a man who played outhalf for Scotland, and also for Connacht. Dan Parks won 67 caps with Scotland and as well as playing with Glasgow and Cardiff Blues, he made 51 appearances for Connacht after which he retired from professional rugby nearly nine years ago. Dan is living in Sydney where he’s still involved in rugby and Sinéad spoke to him about his playing days, his role in Scotland’s last win over Ireland in Dublin in 2010 and why he believes the flair moments from Finn Russell could be the key to unlocking and overcoming Ireland. All week the Left Wing is bringing you more episodes as part of the build-up to the big game. Will is getting the view from Scotland on Thursday from the BBC’s Andy Burke, Sinéad and Cian will have the latest team news on Friday, and there’s also post-match analysis from Murrayfield right after the final whistle. If you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Ulster out-half Ian Madigan to look ahead to Scotland vs Ireland and discuss Ulster's season to date. Ian and Luke break down exactly what they like about how Ireland are playing at the moment, and Ian gives his out-half assessment of Scotland star Finn Russell ahead of Sunday's clash. Ulster have had a tumultuous season and Ian gives his an insight into the ups and downs as he targets a place in the match-day squad for their Champions Cup showdown with Leinster. The lads finish the show by giving their verdict on the big game - and all three are predicting an Ireland win. Join us all week for the build-up to Ireland’s clash against Scotland as we bring you additional Left Wing episodes with views from the Scotland camp, the latest team news and post-match analysis from Murrayfield right after the final whistle. And if you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery, Luke Fitzgerald and Cian Tracey look back on Ireland's dramatic win in Italy. It was far from easy in Rome, with Italy putting Ireland under a lot of pressure. The lads discuss the issues with Ireland's defence and ask whether the return of Garry Ringrose would shore things up ahead of Scotland. The bench impact, the enigma of Finn Russell and Leo Cullen's future at Leinster are up for discussion too. Listen out next week when the Left Wing brings you more shows right throughout the week in the build-up to Ireland’s game against Scotland. There will be a squad update episode on Monday, a special feature interview on Tuesday, Will and Luke’s in-depth analysis on Wednesday, plus the team news announcement on Thursday and immediate post-match analysis from Murrayfield right after the final whistle on the Saturday. And if you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ireland have picked up their third successive bonus point win in this Six Nations, scoring five tries including two from Mack Hansen to beat an impressive Italy 34 points to 20 but the Italians asked plenty of questions of the Irish who did well to come through as they did. Rúaidhrí O’Connor and Cian Tracey join Sinéad Kissane from the Stadio Olimpico on the latest episode of the Left Wing podcast with their post-match analysis and reaction to the game. Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald will be back on Wednesday for the next episode of the Left Wing with their in-depth chat and discussion and if you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Cian Tracey discuss the Ireland team to face Italy. Ross Byrne and Craig Casey will make their first Six Nations starts at half-back - are they ready to lead the team in the absence of Johnny Sexton? Jack Conan gets the nod at number eight, and the lads are in agreement that he needs a big game to hold off Gavin Coombes in the matchday squad. Bundee Aki also returns to the starting team after two big cameos off the bench but Cian thinks that Stuart McCloskey is still the main man at number 12. Join the Left Wing on Saturday when Sinéad Kissane, Cian Tracey and Rúaidhrí O’Connor give their reaction and thoughts right after the final whistle from Rome. If you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by former Italy international Ian McKinley to look ahead to Ireland vs Italy. The Azzurri have made big strides in the last 12 months after beating Wales and Australia, and Ian breaks down why Italy have seen an upsurge in form over the last year. Ross Byrne is in line to feature against Italy and both Luke and Ian think he has a newfound confidence that bodes well for him going forward. Wales' potential Six Nations strike, the return of Joey Carbery and Tadhg Beirne's injury are all up for discussion too. Join us again on Thursday when Will and Cian Tracey will be discussing the announcement of the Ireland team on the next episode of the Left Wing. If you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As part of the Left Wing’s countdown to Saturday’s Six Nations game between Italy and Ireland in Rome, Sinéad Kissane spoke to an Irishman with the inside track on the development of Italian Rugby. Stephen Aboud worked for 26 years with the IRFU in various roles including developing player pathways. In August 2016, he started working for the Italian Rugby Federation as the head of technical direction for the development of players and coaches. His contract with them finished in June last year but he gives some fascinating insights into the development of the game in Italy and why, despite the strong performances of their senior team, he thinks they are taking the wrong direction with the underage set-up which won’t bode well for the future. For more in-depth coverage of Ireland’s game against Italy, join Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald on Wednesday’s show when they’re joined by former Leinster and Italian international, Ian McKinley. If you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Doubts over Johnny Sexton's fitness for Saturday's clash with Italy in Rome have resulted in Joey Carbery earning a recall to the Ireland squad and Rúaidhrí O’Connor joins Sinéad Kissane on today’s Left Wing podcast with the latest. The Munster out-half, who started in their win over the Ospreys on Friday, returns to the squad for the first time since being sensationally dropped for the Six Nations. Kieran Treadwell and Scott Penny are also back on board as the growing injury toll hits Andy Farrell’s side. Ireland play Italy in Rome on Saturday in what will be Andy Farrell’s 35th game in charge of Ireland, that’s including the two Maori games last summer. Also, don’t miss tomorrow’s show when Sinéad interviews Stephen Aboud, the IRFU’s former technical director and Italian rugby’s former head of player and coaching development, for his insights into the clash with Italy. If you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Cian Tracey to look back on Ireland's dramatic win over France. The Grand Slam dream remains very much alive for Andy Farrell's men and both Luke and Cian are very impressed with where the team is at after their second consecutive Six Nations win. James Ryan's return to form, Wayne Barnes' controversial decision to only give France prop Uini Atonio a yellow card and Malakai Fekitoa's Munster departure are all up for discussion too. If you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @CianTracey1 @SinéadKissane and @RuaidhriOCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Well, what a classic we’ve just watched here at the Aviva Stadium. Ireland have beaten France 32 points to 19 in a sensational Six Nations game. It’s a bonus point win – four tries in total from Ireland - Hugo Keenan, James Lowe, Andrew Porter in the first half and Garry Ringrose in the second half. The Grand Slam is still on for Ireland. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery is joined by French rugby expert Paul Eddison to discuss the rise of France under Fabien Galthié and tomorrow's clash with Ireland. The French team was a mess when Galthié took over in 2020 but after 14 wins in a row and a Grand Slam last year, they are the team to beat ahead of their home World Cup in the autumn. Paul explains how France transformed over the last three years and why the team won't be too worried about peaking too early ahead of the World Cup. However, a huge test awaits them in the Aviva Stadium on Saturday - can Ireland come out on top? Don’t forget to join Sinéad Kissane, Rúaidhrí O’Connor and Cian Tracey on Saturday right after the final whistle from the Aviva Stadium when they will be giving their immediate post-match reactions to the game. If you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the rugby team on Twitter @SinéadKissane @RuaidhriOC @CianTracey1 @SlatteryWill and @lukefitz11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andy Farrell has named his team to play France at the Aviva stadium on Saturday and Rúaidhrí O’Connor joins Sinéad Kissane on the latest Left Wing podcast to discuss. There's one change to the team that started the win over Wales last weekend - the injured Dan Sheehan is out, Rob Herring starts at hooker and Ronan Kelleher is back fit again and he's been named on the bench. Sinéad, Rúaidhrí and Cian Tracey will be back with another show right after the final whistle and if you want to get in touch, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the rugby team on Twitter @SinéadKissane @RuaidhriOC @CianTracey1 @SlatteryWill and @lukefitz11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing podcast, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Jonathan Bradley to look back on the opening weekend of the Six Nations. Ireland kicked things off with a very impressive win in Wales and Luke says that Ireland were able to bully Warren Gatland's side. Conor Murray and Finlay Bealham were both drafted into the side late in the week and both produced big games, but bigger tests loom large as France travel to Dublin this weekend. Scotland's upset win over England is up for discussion too, as well as Steve Borthwick's harsh assessment of the end of the Eddie Jones reign. Sinéad will be back with another episode on Thursday with the Ireland team news to face France and if you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the rugby team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @RuaidhriOC @CianTracey1 and @SinéadKissane.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s a triple blow for Ireland on the injury front as they prepare for their Grand Slam decider against France this Saturday. Cian Tracey joins Sinéad Kissane on the latest Left Wing podcast with the injury news and to look ahead to Ireland’s chances. Tadhg Furlong, Jamison Gibson-Park and Cian Healy have all been ruled out and Cian expects the same XV to start with Johnny Sexton set to complete the HIA process and be available for the crunch clash. Don’t forget to join Will Slattery, Luke Fitzgerald and guests on Wednesday’s Left Wing for more in-depth analysis and if you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the rugby team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @RuaidhriOC @CianTracey1 and @SinéadKissane.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Right after the final whistle in Cardiff, Sinéad Kissane is joined by Rúaidhrí O’Connor and Cian Tracey to get the post-match reaction to Ireland’s 34-10 win over Wales. What started off as a blitz with twenty-seven points scored in twenty-seven minutes, Ireland then lost their way and allowed Wales back into this contest before being able to steady the ship and withstand the Welsh onslaught. But it’s mission accomplished says Rud while Cian questions what would have happened if this had been France. The Left Wing will be back on Monday with the latest Ireland squad update and if you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or contact the rugby team on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @RuaidhriOC @CianTracey1 and @SinéadKissane.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sinéad Kissane has this latest report for the Left Wing podcast from Wales ahead of Ireland’s Six Nations opening clash in Cardiff. Hear from Ireland’s forwards coach, Paul O’Connell and Wales captain, Ken Owens, with their respective views from the team camps, while Welsh rugby writer, Steffan Thomas, gives his insights into the return of Warren Gatland and their chances against the Irish. Plus, don’t forget to join Sinéad, Cian and Rúaidhrí on Saturday, just after the final whistle for their post-match analysis. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @RuaidhriOC @CianTracey1 and @SinéadKissane.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ireland have been dealt a major setback ahead of their Six Nations opener against Wales with the news that Tadhg Furlong is out with a calf issue. On the latest Left Wing podcast, Sinéad Kissane is joined by the Irish Independent’s Rúaidhrí O’Connor who is with the Ireland team training base in Portugal. Rúaidhrí says there was no indication that Furlong would be missing out but says Andy Farrell and the Irish squad are still bullish about their chances with Connacht’s Finlay Bealham coming in. The Ireland team vs Wales is: H Keenan, M Hansen, G Ringrose, S McCloskey, J Lowe, J Sexton (C), J Gibson-Park, A Porter, D Sheehan, F Bealham, T Beirne, J Ryan, P O'Mahony, J van der Flier, C Doris. Replacements: R Herring, C Healy, T O'Toole, I Henderson, J Conan, C Murray, R Byrne, B Aki. Join us again on Friday for the view from Wales on their chances against Ireland, whilst on Saturday, just after the final whistle, catch up with Sinéad, Cian and Rúaidhrí for their post-match analysis. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @RuaidhriOC @CianTracey1 and @SinéadKissane.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Jonathan Bradley and Welsh broadcaster Ross Harries to preview the Six Nations. Jonathan starts by asking whether anything other than a title would be a disappointment, with Ireland riding high at world number one. How many games should Johnny Sexton play and who should start at number 12 is up for discussion too. Ross then joins the show to give the view from Wales, where confidence is trending upwards after the return of Warren Gatland. Join Rúaidhrí O’Connor and Sinéad Kissane on Thursday with the latest from the Algarve on Andy Farrell’s team announcement, while Sinéad will be at the Vale of Glamorgan Hotel in Wales. On Friday you’ll hear the view from Wales on their chances against Ireland, whilst on Saturday, just after the final whistle, catch up with Sinéad, Cian and Rúaidhrí for their post-match analysis. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or on Twitter @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @RuaidhriOC @CianTracey1 and @SinéadKissane.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Continuing the Left Wing’s countdown to the opening weekend of the Six Nations, Sinéad Kissane caught up with referee Andrew Brace. Andrew has been referring for the last decade, he grew up in Cardiff and has been living in Limerick for the past 13 years. And for this Six Nations, he’ll referee Scotland against Wales in Murrayfield in round 2 which will actually have an all-IRFU match official line-up for the first time in 20 years. It’s also a good time to talk to a referee because there’s been a bit of debate around issues like the officiating of the high tackle recently and Sinéad gets into that with Andrew and he also talks about the other hot issues that referees will be looking out for in this championship. He also goes into the horrific social media abuse that he and his family were subjected to in the past and the impact that had on him. This Six Nations is also a big one for referees because they too want to make the cut for the World Cup later this year. Don’t forget to join Will and Luke for their weekly analysis on Wednesday, Rúaidhrí O’Connor and Sinéad will be back on Thursday with the latest from the Algarve on Andy Farrell’s team announcement, while Sinéad will be at the Vale of Glamorgan Hotel in Wales. On Friday you’ll hear the view from Wales on their chances against Ireland, whilst on Saturday, just after the final whistle, catch up with Sinéad, Cian and Rúaidhrí for their post-match analysis. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or on Twitter @SinéadKissane @SlatteryWill @lukefitz11 @RuaidhriOC and @CianTracey1.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.