The Left Wing

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.

It’s opening week of the 2023 Six Nations and the Left Wing podcast is bringing you extra shows throughout the weeks of the championship. Every Monday we’ll bring you the latest squad updates and team-related news and this week Cian Tracey joins Sinéad Kissane with all the latest on the Ireland squad who are currently training in the Algarve. Cian and Sinéad go through the selection calls that Andy Farrell faces for Saturday’s opener with Wales. Warren Gatland was able to get under Joe Schmidt’s skin, can he do the same with Andy Farrell? And there’s also the shocking backdrop to this game with the CEO of Welsh rugby resigning at the weekend amid allegations of a toxic culture at the organisation. Listen out for tomorrow’s exclusive interview with the IRFU international referee, Andrew Brace, who details the shocking abuse and death threats he and his family have received, and he also discusses the increased pressure on refs and the laws he would like to see changed. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or on Twitter @SinéadKissane and @CianTracey1.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 the final round of Champions Cup pool games and to look ahead to the Six Nations. The Six Nations launch took place earlier this week, and Cian shares the insights he got from Ireland head coach Andy Farrell and captain Johnny Sexton. Farrell made a big call in dropping Joey Carbery from his Ireland squad - but was it the right one? The lads debate it. Munster's impressive performance in Toulouse, Leinster's warning signs and the RFU's controversial new tackle law 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 tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the final round of pool games in the Champions Cup this weekend and Sinéad Kissane is joined by Cian Tracey on the latest Left Wing podcast to discuss the team news and possible permutations for the Irish provinces. On Saturday Leinster are at home to Racing looking to book a home tie in the next round and Ulster face Sale desperately trying to turn around their season. A win for Ulster will see them qualify. Meanwhile, on Sunday, Munster travel to Toulouse in what will be a daunting challenge, though a losing bonus point should be enough to get through and in the Challenge Cup, Connacht are away to Newcastle at 5.30pm on Saturday hoping to win and stay in the top four of their group. Will and Luke will be back on Wednesday for their in-depth review of the weekend action and if you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or on Twitter @slatterywill and @lukefitz11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Munster’s Joey Carbery has been axed from Ireland’s Six Nations squad which was announced by Andy Farrell today. Cian Tracey joins Sinéad Kissane on the Left Wing podcast to discuss the massive call by Farrell as well as the make-up of the rest of the squad. Leinster youngster Jamie Osborne is the only uncapped player included while Robbie Hanshaw misses out with his ongoing wrist issue. Overall, there are 20 Leinster players included, eight from Munster, five from Ulster and four from Connacht. Ireland begin their Six Nations campaign against Wales in Cardiff on February 4. Join Sinéad and Cian again on Friday as they discuss the team news and permutations ahead of the weekend’s Champions Cup action. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or on Twitter @sineadkissane and @CianTracey1.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Rúaidhrí O'Connor to look ahead to the Ireland Six Nations squad announcement and the final round of Champions Cup pool games. Andy Farrell has question marks over key veterans such as Conor Murray and Bundee Aki after the duo were left out in the cold last weekend - will the Ireland coach keep faith in the pair? The chat then turns to the IRFU's use of central contracts and whether it's the best route forward for Irish rugby. The lads also discuss Eddie Jones' return to Australia, Munster's tough test in Toulouse and Ulster's latest collapse in La Rochelle. Join us again later in the week when there will be further episodes discussing Ireland’s Six Nations squad and looking ahead to the Champions Cup weekend games. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sinéad Kissane looks ahead to Round 3 of this weekend’s Champions Cup action with the Irish Independent’s Rúaidhrí O’Connor and the big news is that Conor Murray has been dropped from the Munster squad to face Northampton in Thomond Park. It’s a big call from coach Graham Rowntree who has picked Craig Casey to start and Paddy Patterson as back-up on the bench. Overall, there are nine changes to the team that beat the Lions last week. For Leinster, who face Gloucester at Kingsholm on Saturday, Garry Ringrose returns to the centre as captain, while Hugo Keenan will make his 50th Leinster appearance and Cian Healy marks 100 European games after being named on the bench. Ireland internationals Andrew Porter, James Ryan, Ryan Baird, Josh van der Flier and Caelan Doris all return. Elsewhere, Ulster face another stiff test away to reigning champions La Rochelle, while in the Challenge Cup, Connacht are at home to Brive. Will and Luke will be back on Wednesday for their in-depth review of the weekend action and if you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11.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 discuss all the latest rugby news. The show kicks off with a discussion on the amount of minutes Dan Sheehan has played for Leinster and Ireland this year and whether it is better for players to be battle tested or well rested. The chat then turns towards the Champions Cup, and in particular the amount of travel the South African teams have to do in order to compete in the northern hemisphere. Ulster's woeful form, Leinster's cracking clash with the Ospreys and Ben Healy's Munster departure are all on the agenda too. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the first episode of The Left Wing in 2023, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Rúaidhrí O'Connor to discuss all the latest rugby news. The lads kick off by discussing the injury to Johnny Sexton that could rule him out of at least the start of the Six Nations. Joey Carbery, Ross Byrne and Jack Crowley would all be in contention to start against Wales if Sexton misses out, and Luke thinks Byrne could be a good option. The chat then turns to how the provinces fared over the Christmas period. Leinster will be happy after keeping their 100% record intact, while Ulster suffered another damaging defeat against Munster. The lads finish up by discussing potential Ireland Six Nations bolters, with Andy Farrell set to name his squad later this month. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald look back on the latest weekend of Champions Cup action. The lads kick things off looking back on Leinster's win over Gloucester and the decision of the English team to send over a massively weakened side to the RDS. Luke hopes the decision comes back to bite Gloucester and says Leinster won't have learned anything from the 57-0 win. The chat then moves on to Ulster's loss to La Rochelle and the decision for the game to be moved from Belfast to Dublin due to a frozen pitch. Luke says the Ulster players need a major refresh to kick-start their season. Finally, the lads look back on Munster's impressive win in Northampton and Connacht's 100% start to the Challenge Cup. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s round two of the Champions Cup this weekend and Rúaidhrí O’Connor joins Sinéad Kissane on the latest Left Wing podcast to look ahead to the games involving the Irish provinces with all the latest team news. Leinster are going for two wins out of two when they play Gloucester at the RDS, Ulster are up against the defending champions La Rochelle in Belfast on Saturday evening – that’s ground permitting. And on Sunday lunchtime, Munster are away to Northampton Saints at Franklins Gardens, while in the Challenge Cup, Connacht are in France to play Brive and they’re also going for their second win. Will and Luke will be back on Wednesday for their in-depth review of the weekend action and if you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Jonathan Bradley to discuss the opening round of the Champions Cup. Ulster are the first team on the agenda after their embarrassing 39-0 defeat to Sale - Jonathan says it is the worst Ulster performance he has seen in eight years covering the team. However, Luke thinks that coach Dan McFarland can turn things around after what has been a tough few weeks for the squad. Leinster's emphatic win away to Racing 92, Munster's narrow loss to Toulouse and the Champions Cup format 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 tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Irish provinces have named their teams for the opening weekend of European action and Rúaidhrí O’Connor joins Sinéad Kissane to preview Racing 92 v Leinster, Munster v Toulouse, Sale Sharks v Ulster and Connacht v Newcastle Falcons. Plus they also discuss the IRFU’s Women's Rugby in Ireland report that has been launched with the IRFU requiring an additional €1.4m per annum to implement their women’s rugby strategy. Will and Luke will be back on Wednesday for their in-depth review of the weekend action and if you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11.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 discuss all the latest rugby news. The show kicks off with the news of Warren Gatland's return to Wales and Eddie Jones' sacking in England - is it too late before the World Cup for the two teams to bounce back or is this the boost they need? The lads then preview the Champions Cup, which kicks off this weekend - is this finally the year Leinster win back the European Cup? If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11. 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 assess where the Irish provinces stand heading into a crucial period of the season. After the drama of the November internationals, focus turns to the club game again and we have two big games this coming weekend - Leinster vs Ulster in a derby clash at the RDS, while Munster have a must-win trip to Edinburgh. The lads are in agreement that there is some positivity coming back into the Munster set-up, while Ulster players like Jacob Stockdale and James Hume have something to prove against Leinster. In the second part of the show, Chris Foy in the UK joins Will and Luke to discuss Eddie Jones' future as England coach, with pressure mounting on the RFU to make a change. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Rúaidhrí O’Connor to review the November internationals. The lads kick things off with a look back on Ireland's win over Australia before moving on to why the attack never really clicked during November. Johnny Sexton's absence often sees Ireland fail to hit their regular heights and Luke says the captain's unique skill-set is the reason why. Gregor Townsend's ongoing battle with Finn Russell, England's comeback against New Zealand and whether Ronan O'Gara might succeed Eddie Jones 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 tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With Josh van der Flier picking up the World Rugby Men's Player of the Year and Terry Kennedy the Men's Sevens Player of the Year to cap off an incredible 2022 for Irish rugby, Sinéad Kissane was in Monaco to hear from the winners and the other Irish nominees. On this episode of the Left Wing podcast, she speaks to van der Flier and Kennedy about their awards, as well as Johnny Sexton, Andy Farrell, Mack Hansen and Dan Sheehan on victory over South Africa. Plus you'll hear from Ruby Tui, World Rugby Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year, and Ireland's Linda Djougang and Amee Leigh Murphy Crowe. Will and Luke will have their in-depth review of Ireland’s Autumn Series on Wednesday and if you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cian Tracey joins Sinéad Kissane from the Aviva Stadium minutes after the final whistle with his post-match reaction to Ireland’s 13-10 victory over Australia. Ross Byrne was the hero with his match-winning penalty four minutes from time but without Johnny Sexton, it was a scrappy performance from Ireland, albeit a record-equalling 12th consecutive home victory. Sinéad will also have a special episode of the Left Wing on Monday from the World Rugby Awards where Johnny Sexton and Josh van der Flier are on the shortlist while Will and Luke will have their in-depth review of Ireland’s Autumn Series on Wednesday. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Indo World Cup will preview every gameday of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The Irish Independent football team come together to discuss the potential winners, those who might struggle and the dark horses of the tournament.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andy Farrell has named the Ireland team to face Australia in the last of their Autumn internationals and Rúaidhrí O’Connor joins Will Slattery to analyse the starting XV and replacements and he doesn’t agree with the bookies giving Ireland a 13 point spread over the Wallabies. Sinéad Kissane and Cian Tracey will have another Left Wing podcast from the Aviva Stadium on Saturday after the final whistle, plus Will and Luke will have their usual in-depth analysis on the Left Wing on Wednesday. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Cian Tracey to look back on Ireland's win over Fiji and look ahead to the clash against Australia. Andy Farrell didn't spare his players after the sloppy performance against Fiji and Cian says that the second-string could be waiting a while for another opportunity. The lads discuss the out-half picture after the injury to Joey Carbery and the promising display from Jack Crowley, while they also pay tribute to Josh van der Flier and Johnny Sexton after their World Player of the Year nominations. The challenge of Wallaby Will Skelton, Rassie Erasmus' latest rant and France's thrilling win over South Africa are all on the agenda too. Will is back with another show on Thursday to go through the Ireland XV that will be named to face Australia on Saturday while Sinéad Kissane will have the immediate post-match reaction from the Aviva Stadium right after the final whistle. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Minutes after the final whistle, Rúaidhrí O’Connor gives his post-match reaction and analysis to Ireland’s 35-17 win over Fiji. Speaking to Sinéad Kissane for this episode of The Left Wing podcast, Rud says that despite the winning run continuing, there is still plenty of room for improvement for this Irish team, especially with the high standards they have set for themselves. The truth is though, without Johnny Sexton there to drive them on, they look far short of being a world number one team. Don’t forget to join Will and Luke on Wednesday for their in-depth review of the game as well as their preview of Ireland v Australia, while Thursday sees The Left Wing discuss the starting XV to face the Wallabies soon after it’s named. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s a debut for Athy’s Jeremy Loughman as he’s named in the Ireland XV to face Fiji on Saturday and Cian Tracey joins Sinéad Kissane to go through the line-up named by Andy Farrell which has eight changes. Sinéad and Rúaidhrí O’Connor will be back on Saturday after the final whistle with a post-match Left Wing podcast from the Aviva Stadium analysing Ireland v Fiji and Will and Luke will have their usual in-depth analysis on the Left Wing on Wednesday. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Rúaidhrí O'Connor to look back on Ireland's big win over South Africa. The Irish forwards stood up to the Springbok barrage and Rud and Luke are in agreement that while Andy Farrell's men did a lot of things right, there is also plenty of room for improvement going forward. Thoughts now turn towards Fiji this weekend, although a lot of players played their way out of contention with a poor showing against All Blacks 'A' last week. England's shock defeat to Argentina and France's thrilling win over Australia are up for discussion too. If you want to get in touch with the show, email your questions and comments to [email protected], or tweet Will and Luke at @slatterywill and @lukefitz11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.