France's hand replaced Ireland's on the Six Nations rugby trophy after a momentous 42-27 win at Aviva Stadium on Saturday. France decisively took over the lead of the championship with a bonus-point victory and can clinch its first title since 2022 in the final round at home next Saturday when it hosts Scotland.

Gardner said the fact O’Mahony, like Healy and Conor Murray making his final Ireland appearance in Dublin, was back-peddling absolved Flament from blame for stopping him tackling the approaching ball carrier. It appeared, at best, a questionable decision. Easterby will have questions too.

Ireland were rocked by a crucial late injury blow just minutes before kick off in their Six Nations title decider against France. The grand-slam chasing hosts lost James Lowe in the warm-up, with the wing’s back spasming as he took contact during a drill.