6N preview - Ireland

O'Connell: Big campaign ahead

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Talk of a golden age in Irish rugby has been on-going for a good few years, however ultimately three Triple Crowns is a poor return for the quality of players available.

A change of coach from Eddie O'Sullivan - who deserves praise for turning the fortunes around to start with - to Declan Kidney, though, could prove the difference.

Kidney has a proven track record for Munster, including leading the side to the Heineken Cup in his final season, and much is expected this time around.

However the Irish have been dogged by inconsistency in the championship - going too often from the sublime (running riot v England in 2007) to the ridiculous (stuttering v Italy in 2008).

With the likes of Paul O'Connell, Brian O'Driscoll and David Wallace, the Irish have some experienced match-winners - while in Rob Kearney, Tommy Bowe, Keith Earls, Luke Fitzgerald and Jamie Heaslip they have some of the brightest young talent in the northern hemisphere.

Strengths: Ireland's players go into the game full of confidence and with a number of players in top form. Munster and Leinster have shown in Europe this season to reach the last eight, while both teams are pushing for the Magners League title.

Star man: Brian O'Driscoll - By his own admission, the Irish skipper may no longer be able break the line with the same regularity as in his pomp, however he remains the one man defences will be keeping an eye on. Injuries have also hampered him, however he has the potential to win a game in the blink of an eye.

Surprise package: Thomas O'Leary - The Munster No.9 has been in superb form in the Magners League and Heineken Cup this season, however he now needs to show he can produce the goods on the international stage. A fearsome tackler and an incisive runner, O'Leary has sometimes been let down by his pass though.

Point to prove: Paul O'Connell - The second row is another who has impressed so far this season, however the Munster man has extra reason to want to see Ireland succeed. The powerhouse second row is in line to lead the Lions in the summer and a run of impressive displays could go some way to securing the captaincy.

Prediction: Joint 3rd - Despite the changes, there is still work to be done. There are fitness fears over O'Driscoll, while the Irish front row could come under increasing pressure. The fixtures do favour Ireland, however trips to Wales, Scotland and Italy will still be testing.