In an unexpected move, the Irish team’s management have not discounted the participation of Calvin Nash and Ciaran Frawley in the upcoming final of the Guinness Six Nations against Scotland, taking place at the Aviva Stadium next Saturday, with kick-off scheduled for 4.45pm. Both Nash and Frawley had to abandon last Saturday’s match against England, which Ireland narrowly lost 23-22 at Twickenham, to complete Head Injury Assessments (HIAs). The pair didn’t make a return to the field.
Despite this, Simon Easterby, the defence coach, revealed following a training session on Tuesday at the IRFU HPC in Sports Campus Ireland, that no one is officially out of the roster yet. He continued, “It’s clear that both Nash and Frawls have to follow the required process and ensure they aren’t showing any symptoms – if they were to display any, that might delay their return by a day. But they’re both on the right track to play. Apart from these two, everyone else participated in the training session.”
Easterby also stated that following their loss against England, the squad is still confident and is gunning to retain the championship title, ideally through a victory. Recognising their previous errors, especially in their defensive approach against England, he admitted that the team performed below their usual standards. However, he stressed the importance of learning from their shortcomings and gearing up for the upcoming match. He acknowledged England’s strong performance while emphasising the Irish team’s propensity for a strong comeback in the impending match.
In the past nine encounters, the Irish have consistently emerged victorious over the Scots, amplifying the long-established rivalry between them. The tension has been palpable in recent times, contributing to the heightened anticipation, what Easterby refers to as the “subplots”, as the Irish aim to clinch the trophy on the concluding Saturday at the Aviva; an attempt to repeat last year’s St Patrick’s weekend triumph.
Easterby acknowledges that Scotland will be anguishing over their recent loss to Italy, despite the latter deserving their victory. However, he expresses concern over the Scottish back three’s ability to present challenges, Finn Russell’s skill in orchestrating the play and how challenging it becomes to halt their stride when he’s in the groove.
Easterby emphasizes that their focus on the game has to be razor sharp. Ireland has much at stake and aims to conclude with flying colours. They wish to make amends for the last week’s unfortunate events. While they cannot alter the past, this being the final game of the Six Nations presents an opportunity to snatch the title.
Easterby acknowledges that achieving this feat is a tall order, as history suggests its rarity. Back-to-back championship victories have also been infrequent, adding to the thrill.
The discussion also steered towards Antoine Frisch’s potential inclusion and the possible implications of him becoming an uncapped non-Irish player. Easterby is unclear whether Frisch has been considered for selection or for training purposes. He admits to working with Frisch during the Emerging Ireland tour and concedes that he is a valuable asset who could secure a position in several teams given the chance.
Frisch is perceived as a strong player and person, and his potential inclusion in the French team could impact the dynamics. Easterby confirms that he hasn’t had discussions with Antoine about this but hints at possible future conversations with Munster and Faz regarding his intentions, pending further information.
Easterby declares a wait-and-see approach, planning to make decisions based on the developments this week.