This year’s Six Nations Championship sees holders France open the six-week tournament against one of their nearest rival in terms of competition, Ireland, in Paris.
Andy Farrell’s Boys in Green come into this year’s championship under the radar in comparison to years gone by.
Their middling performance in the Autumn Nations Series led to people’s expectations dropping after losses against New Zealand and South Africa.
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France also lost to the Springboks in November, but paired with wins over Fiji and Australia, Les Bleus were happy with their return from the series.
Last year, France were steamrolling towards the title, a point ahead of England and two in front of Ireland, with all three teams losing one game and bonus points deciding the championship.
France have a tough task to replicate their feat and possibly go for the grand slam, but to have Ireland up first, with Andy Farrell back in charge post-Lions hiatus, They could face fewer tougher tasks to open their charge.
Ireland will be without centre Bundee Aki, who is servinga three-match ban for unsportsmanlike behaviour towards an official whilst playing for Connacht earlier in the season.
When and where is the Six Nations opener between Ireland and France?
Ireland take on France at the Stade de France in Paris for the opening fixture of the Six Nations Championship on Thursday, February 5.
Kick-off is scheduled for 8.10pm
Where can I watch the Six Nations game between France and Ireland?
The Six Nations opener between France and Ireland in Paris will be broadcast live on ITV, with coverage starting from 7.20pm.
Where can I get tickets for the Ireland v France game in the Six Nations?
There are still tickets available for France’s Six Nations game against Ireland, with the cheapest reduced-view tickets coming in at €75 and are available from La Fédération française de rugby