Sexton returns for Ireland against England

Andy Farrell has recalled Johnny Sexton as captain for Ireland’s six nation’s game with England on Saturday.

Sexton captains the side from out-half with Jamison Gibson Park alongside him at halfback.

Bundee Aki is restored to the midfield to partner Garry Ringrose while Andrew Conway and Hugo Keenan come back into the backfield alongside James Lowe.

Cian Healy wins his 115th cap in a front row that includes Dan Sheehan and Tadhg Furlong. Tadhg Beirne and James Ryan line out in the engine room while Peter O’Mahony, Josh van der Flier and Caelan Doris make up the backrow.

The replacements include Rob Herring, Dave Kilcoyne, Finlay Bealham, Iain Henderson, Jack Conan, Conor Murray, Joey Carbery and Robbie Henshaw.

Ireland

15. Hugo Keenan
16. Andrew Conway
17. Garry Ringrose
18. Bundee Aki
19. James Lowe
20. Johnny Sexton (C)
21. Jamison Gibson Park

1. Cian Healy
2. Dan Sheehan
3. Tadhg Furlong
4. Tadhg Beirne
5. James Ryan
6. Peter O’Mahony
7. Josh van der Flier
8. Caelan Doris

Replacements

16. Rob Herring
17. Dave Kilcoyne
18. Finlay Bealham
19. Iain Henderson
20. Jack Conan
21. Conor Murray
22. Joey Carbery
23. Robbie Henshaw

England v Ireland

Saturday March 12

Twickenham, kick-off 4:45pm