The Counter Ruck

Fresh off covering Ireland's win over France, Gerry Thornley joins host Nathan Johns and John O'Sullivan to review the victory that sets up Andy Farrell’s team as favourites for the Six Nations. We discuss the French media's strong reaction, how Ireland looked a better-coached side, the impressive second row pairing of Joe McCarthy and Tadhg Beirne as well as Jack Crowley's coming-of-age performance at out-half. We also analyse if Ireland has a scrum problem, while looking at the U20s win over France in Aix-en-Provence.Produced by Declan Conlon and John Casey. JJ Vernon on sound. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Irish Times rugby correspondent Gerry Thornley previews Friday night’s clash from the Stade Velodrome in Marseille.With both teams exiting last year’s World Cup at the quarter-final stage, a opening round win will go some way to deciding the winner of this Six Nations tournament. In terms of Irish players to watch out for, Jack Crowley steps in to fill the void left by the now-retired Johnny Sexton at fly-half, while Leinster lock Joe McCarthy is a hugely exciting prospect.While watching Ireland’s captain’s run, Gerry talks through team selection and where the game could be won and lost for Ireland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gordon D'Arcy and John O'Sullivan join host Nathan Johns to preview the Six Nations ahead of Ireland's opening game away to France on Friday night.The panel discusses selection, captaincy and Ireland's poor record following World Cup campaigns.We also hear from Clare native Noel McNamara, the attack coach at Union Bordeaux-Begles. Newly installed at the French club, McNamara works on a daily basis with a number of players in the France squad, most notably Maxime Lucu, the man expected to be tasked with replacing the absent Antoine Dupont.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Counter Ruck is a new rugby podcast from The Irish Times. Launching on Monday, January 29th - just in time for the Six Nations. Produced in association with Nifti Business. https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.