Rugby Union
Ireland’s Six Nations: Everything You Need To Know
Discover the ins and outs of Ireland in the Six Nations with our detailed guide as we take a dive into key players, match insights, and more.
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History of the Six Nations
The original Home Nations Championship was the first international rugby union tournament in history, first being played in 1883 between England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. That tournament has since evolved into the Six Nations Championship as we know it today.
In 1910, the tournament switched names and became the Five Nations Championship as France were added, with Italy joining 90 years later in 2000 to mark the beginning of the Six Nations Championship.
The victors of the Six Nations are presented with the Championship trophy which dates back to 1993, where it was awarded to France. However, in 2015, a new trophy was created to retire the old one which was representative of the nations that took part in the Five Nations Championship, and to signify the birth of the new era of the tournament.
Ireland’s Past in the Tournament
Since their participation in the first-ever rugby championships back in 1882, Ireland have been an ever-present force in the world of rugby.
They have won the Six Nations on five different occasions, lifting the trophy in 2009, 2014, 2015, 2018 and last year in 2023. Since the creation of the Home Nations Championship (now the Six Nations) in 1882, Ireland have won 23 titles making them joint-fourth in the overall standings.
Sitting proudly as one of the original four nations from the Six Nations championships format, Ireland have been able to win multiple titles – including a Grand Slam last year – as well as battle their fiercest rivals.
Key Players for Ireland
Peter O’Mahony
Peter O’Mahony is set to lead Ireland during the Six Nations, stepping into the captaincy role after Sexton’s retirement. The 34-year-old has proven to be an ideal choice, consistently delivering top-notch performances for both his club and country. Beyond his leadership qualities, O’Mahony stands out for his outstanding work in the lineout, adept ball-handling skills, robust defence, and prowess in the breakdown.
Jamison Gibson-Park
In the realm of the Ireland attack, scrum-half Jamison Gibson-Park has been a pivotal force in recent years, and there’s every reason to anticipate his continued impact in 2024. Possessing the attributes of a complete number nine, he exhibits exceptional running abilities and maintains a sharp, accurate, and tactical kicking game.
Caelan Doris
Meanwhile, Caelan Doris enters the tournament in remarkable form, continually improving and avoiding the added responsibility of the Test captaincy. The 25-year-old back-rower, known for his tireless work ethic, consistently contributes to countless rucks, amassing impressive tackle and carry statistics in each match. With a knack for scoring tries in close quarters, Doris is poised to be a valuable asset throughout the competition.
Ireland’s fixtures in the Six Nations
France v Ireland– 2nd February – Stade Velodrome.
Ireland v Italy – 11th February – Aviva Stadium.
Ireland v Wales – 24th February – Aviva Stadium.
England v Ireland – 9th March – Twickenham Stadium.
Ireland v Scotland – 16th March – Aviva Stadium.
