Ireland’s home meeting with Italy kicks off round two of the 2026 Six Nations this week.
It is a clash between two sides with contrasting fortunes in the opening round, as the injury-hit Irish fell 36-14 to dominant holders France in Paris while the Azzurri showcased their improving rugby prowess by downing Scotland 18-15 last weekend.
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Ireland boss Andy Farrell will that result and the return to home soil can spark an instant response from his squad, and he has made six changes to his XV.
Ulster team-mates Robert Baloucoune and Cormac Izuchukwu make their Six Nations debuts on the right wing and at blindside flanker, respectively, while James Lowe comes in on the left wing and Craig Casey replaces Jamison Gibson-Park at scrum-half. James Ryan, meanwhile, is given the nod at lock over Tadhg Beirne while Jack Conan starts at No 8, meaning captain Caelan Doris moves over to the openside.
Italy were missing several key players through injury for their shock win over the Scots and Gonzalo Quesada has been forced into one change, ruling out centre Juan Ignacio Brex due to family reasons.
The Italy boss has therefore reshuffled the positions of his backline but otherwise keeps faith in his round one lineup.
It has been 13 years since the most recent of Italy’s four wins over Ireland, but last week will give the visitors plenty of confidence in aiming for a rare Dublin win.
Where to watch Ireland vs Italy
TV channel: In the UK, Ireland vs Italy is being shown live and free to air on ITV1 and STV, with coverage on both channels beginning at 1pm GMT on Saturday February 7, 2026, ahead of kick-off at 2:10pm GMT (or 3:30pm in Italy).
Live stream: Live coverage of the game will also be available for online streaming via the ITVX website and app, which is free with a registration.
Live blog: You can also follow the action as it happens at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday right here with us, in Standard Sport’s dedicated live blog.
