Ireland recall former captain Peter O’Mahony for Scotland Six Nations clash

Ireland have recalled back-row forward Peter O’Mahony and centre Robbie Henshaw for Sunday’s Guinness Six Nations match against Scotland.

Former captain O’Mahony, who was left out of Simon Easterby’s matchday squad for last weekend’s 27-22 bonus-point win over England, replaces Ryan Baird at blindside flanker.

Henshaw will partner Bundee Aki in midfield, with Garry Ringrose joining Baird in dropping to the bench.

Back-to-back champions Ireland travel to Murrayfield to resume their pursuit of an unprecedented third consecutive title following victory over Steve Borthwick’s side.

Tighthead prop Finlay Bealham and wing Mack Hansen have been passed fit to start after each sustaining leg issues in round one.

Sam Prendergast continues at fly-half, with Jack Crowley again providing back-up from the bench following an impressive cameo last weekend.

Ulster lock Iain Henderson drops out of the selection following the recall of the vastly experienced O’Mahony, who will win his 111th cap.

Ireland have dominated recent meetings with Scotland, winning 14 of the last 15 fixtures, including 10 in a row, dating back more than a decade.

Those victories include a title-clinching 17-13 success in Dublin last year, plus pool-stage wins at the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups.

Interim head coach Easterby said: “Sunday’s game presents a significant challenge against a Scotland side that had a very good Autumn Nations Series and have started the Six Nations with a positive bonus-point win over Italy.

“We have taken confidence from the win over England this week and there are undoubtedly areas for improvement.

“Selection was a real challenge again which reinforces the competition for places. As we approach round two, it’s about improvement and building momentum.

“We know that we will need to start the game strongly and meet their physical challenge.”

Ireland team: H Keenan (Leinster); M Hansen (Connacht), R Henshaw (Leinster), B Aki (Connacht), J Lowe (Leinster); S Prendergast (Leinster), J Gibson-Park (Leinster); A Porter (Leinster), R Kelleher (Leinster), F Bealham (Connacht), J Ryan (Leinster), T Beirne (Munster), P O’Mahony (Munster), J Van der Flier (Leinster), C Doris (Leinster, capt).

Replacements: D Sheehan (Leinster), C Healy (Leinster), T Clarkson (Leinster), R Baird (Leinster), J Conan (Leinster), C Murray (Munster), J Crowley (Munster), G Ringrose (Leinster).