Ireland

Acting Ireland head coach Les Kiss has named six uncapped players for their tour of North America and hopes their exposure to international rugby can help the incoming Joe Schmidt.

Ireland's most capped player Ronan O'Gara has hung up his playing boots and will coach at French side Racing Metro next season.

Ireland captain Jamie Heaslip has expressed his delight that Brian O'Driscoll has decided to extend his playing career for at least another season.

Brian O'Driscoll is set for one more tilt at the RBS 6 Nations after agreeing a new one-year deal with the IRFU, ensuring he will play a key role in Joe Schmidt's first season at Ireland's helm.

Ireland winger Tommy Bowe admits he's desperate to make up for missing out on the RBS 6 Nations by playing a starring role on this summer's British & Irish Lions tour to Australia.

Ireland fly-half Jonny Sexton is praying his injury woes are behind him ahead of two cup finals with club side Leinster and a summer abroad with the British and Irish Lions.

Paddy Jackson admits it has been a struggle to bounce back from his maiden appearances in an Ireland jersey but it is something he is determined to do - and with success too.

Leinster head coach Joe Schmidt has allayed any concern over Brian O'Driscoll's fitness despite seeing the centre limp off with a back problem in the first half of this weekend's PRO12 semi-final.

Ireland full-back Rob Kearney has admitted he has been adopting a policy of safety first as he looks rediscover his best form on the British & Irish Lions tour to Australia.