Ireland make one change for Italy in Six Nations

Ireland have named their team to play Italy in the Six Nations with one change to the team that lost to England two weeks ago.

Iain Henderson lines out at blindside flanker in place of the sidelined Peter O’Mahony and will form a backrow partnership with Ulster colleague Chris Henry and Ireland vice-captain Jamie Heaslip.

Paul O’Connell leads the side and packs down in an unchanged front five alongside Devin Toner, Cian Healy, Rory Best and Mike Ross.

Johnny Sexton has recovered from a thumb injury to take his place in the team in the backline that started against England and Wales.

There are a two changes on the bench with Rhys Ruddock replacing Henderson who starts and Eoin Reddan coming in for Isaac Boss who is rested this week.

Brian O’Driscoll becomes the most capped test player in rugby history today claiming his 140th test appearance (132 Ireland and 8 Lions).

Ireland

15. Rob Kearney , 14. Andrew Trimble , 13. Brian O’Driscoll , 12. Gordon D’Arcy , 11. Dave Kearney , 10. Jonathan Sexton , 9. Conor Murray ,8. Jamie Heaslip, 7. Chris Henry , 6. Iain Henderson , 5. Paul O’Connell , 4. Devin Toner , 3. Mike Ross , 2. Rory Best1. Cian Healy

Replacements : 16. Sean Cronin , 17. Jack McGrath , 18. Martin Moore , 19. Rhys Ruddock , 20. Jordi Murphy , 21. Eoin Reddan , 22. Paddy Jackson, 23. Fergus McFadden