Ireland head coach Andy Farrell says winger Jacob Stockdale “deserves” to start against France in the Six Nations opener in Paris on Thursday night.
Stockdale, 29, who was named player of the championship in 2018, returns to the tournament for the first time since playing England in 2021. James Lowe of Leinster has mostly held the wing spot but has struggled for form since the British and Irish Lions tour last summer.
“Jacob’s back to being himself this year,” Farrell said. “He’s simplified his game and gone back to what he does best—beating people. We’ve seen plenty of that this season.”
With Stockdale on the left wing, Jamie Osborne will start at full-back in place of Hugo Keenan, who misses out due to a broken thumb. Osborne, sidelined since Ireland’s win over Japan in November with a shoulder issue, has impressed in training and Farrell believes he is ready for the challenge.
“Jacob deserves his chance, and Jamie has shown he’s prepared for this game,” Farrell added. “Hugo has been unlucky with injury, but we’re confident in the replacements we have.”
