Lowe returns to much changed Ireland side for Italy Six Nations match

AFP Thu, 12 February 2026 at 3:20 pm UTC·3 min read Veteran wing James Lowe returns to the Ireland starting line-up for their Six Nations match with Italy on Saturday as head coach Andy Farrell made sweeping changes following a desperately disappointing opening 36-14 defeat by France. Lowe, who will win his 44th cap, was a surprise omission from the matchday 23 in France and is one of six changes to the starting XV from the game in Paris.Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Farrell has also brought in Robert Balacoune on the other wing, for his Six Nations debut -- the duo replaces Tommy O'Brien...