Prop Jeremy Loughman will make his first Ireland appearance in two years against France in the opening game of the 2026 Six Nations on Thursday but there is no place in the starting team for James Lowe, James Ryan or Tadhg Furlong.

Coaches may need to call on more players and there might be fewer underdog stories as a new Six Nations schedule is launched.

Fraser Dingwall and Tommy Freeman will attempt to bring out the best in each other when they line up in England's midfield against Wales.

Ireland hooker Dan Sheehan says there is "confidence" in the players still available for Thursday's opening Six Nations match against France in Paris.

To help get you in the Six Nations mood, solve these anagrams to reveal twelve players hoping to make an impact over the next six weeks.

Chris chats to Tommy Freeman and Fraser Dingwall who start in the midfield against Wales.

England's 21-year-old back row is comfortable with his love-hate relationship with rugby fans.

Your guide to the health of each side heading into this year's Six Nations - and what our BBC pundits predict will happen.

England and Wales will face each other in a potential pool decider at the 2027 Men's Rugby World Cup on 16 October in Sydney.

Maro Itoje is a replacement while Fraser Dingwall and Tommy Freeman form the midfield as England shake things up to face Wales.