Old enemy.

Ireland begin their Six Nations title defence on February 2 next month with an absolute belter of a game against England at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

Joe Schmidt’s men are understandable favourites for not only their opening fixture – but the tournament itself, following an incredible 12 months or so for the men in green.

And with that success, both domestically and internationally, comes some serious selection headaches for the Ireland boss who now boasts the strongest Ireland squad in history – with competition for places in almost every position.

The key decisions for Schmidt come in the centre, at openside and in the second-row. With that being said here’s the team we reckon should take the field next month, with the likes of Sean O’Brien and Robbie Henshaw missing out. Strength in depth indeed.

Potential Ireland team vs England.

15. Rob Kearney
14. Keith Earls
13. Garry Ringrose
12. Bundee Aki
11. Jacob Stockdale
10. Johnny Sexton
9. Conor Murray

1. Cian Healy
2. Rory Best (c)
3. Tadhg Furlong
4. Devin Toner
5. James Ryan
6. Peter O’Mahony
7. Josh van der Flier
8. CJ Stander