Huw Jones was standing in a tunnel in Murrayfield on Saturday when the Ireland question came. “Ten defeats in a row, Huw. It’s time this stopped, isn’t it?” Yes, replied the centre, full of bravado after scoring a hat-trick against Italy.

Ireland began its Six Nations three-peat bid by blowing away England during 30-plus minutes of controlled aggression in the second half for a 27-22 comeback victory in Dublin.

Rugby’s Greatest Championship continues this weekend with matches at the Stadio Olimpico, Twickenham and Murrayfield.

Ireland interim boss Simon Easterby has warned his Six Nations title-chasers that Scotland are capable of unleashing a formidable attack against them this weekend. Ireland can step up their pursuit of an unprecedented third consecutive Six Nations crown when they face Scotland at Murrayfield on Sunday.

AN EIGHT-DAY turnaround after a bonus-point win on the opening weekend of the Six Nations is just about the dream scenario. The extra day of recovery will help any Ireland player carrying the usual bumps and bruises that come with taking on a fired-up England team.