Interim boss Simon Easterby believes back-to-back champions Ireland are “up for the challenge” of chasing Six Nations history in the absence of Andy Farrell. Ireland are bidding to become the first country to claim three consecutive titles since the championship was expanded 25 years ago.

Ireland interim coach Simon Easterby is ready to use his years of experience working with the side to take the country to a third successive Six Nations Championship success, and knows the team will need to improve to stay on top.

Easterby and Caelan Doris flew from Rome to Lisbon after the Six Nations launch, from where they drove to Quinta do Lago. As in November, Johnny Sexton will again be in and out of the squad, pending work commitments, in his background role as a mentor to the Irish outhalves.

Ireland interim head coach Simon Easterby says that his team are more motivated by improving, rather than worrying about the strength of the chasing pack as they seek another successful Six Nations championship.

Assuming the role of head coach on an interim basis in place of Andy Farrell, Easterby cut a relaxed figure among coaches more experienced at this annual event – Warren Gatland is heading into his 17th Championship and even Gonzalo Quesada had done his first last year.