Niall Scannell to start for Ireland in Italy as captain Best misses out

Jamie Heaslip will lead Ireland out at Stadio Olimpico as Joe Schmidt’s side look to bounce back from opening day defeat.

Luke Marshall and Rory Best Dan Sheridan / INPHO Dan Sheridan / INPHO / INPHO

IRELAND CAPTAIN RORY Best has been withdrawn from the starting line-up for today’s Six Nations clash with Italy in Rome.

The veteran hooker missed yesterday’s Captain’s Run with a stomach bug, leaving Jamie Heaslip to take command.

Niall Scannell Scannell practices his throwing at yesterday's run-out. Dan Sheridan / INPHO Dan Sheridan / INPHO / INPHO

24-year-old Munster hooker Niall Scannell will make his first Test start in Best’s place. Leinster’s James Tracy has been promoted to the replacements bench.

Rory Best's run of 51 consecutive Six Nations games comes to end. Ireland captain ruled out of Italy clash. Niall Scannell in for Test debut
— Rory Keane (@RoryPKeane) February 11, 2017

Rory Keane / Twitter

Speaking to RTE pre-match, head coach Schmidt said:

“He probably could played, but you need the energy and it’s probably not best for Rory.

“We’ve shown confidence in Niall and James. (Scannell) is ready and he’ll demonstrate that today.

“He’s got good experience either side of him. and he plays with John Ryan in Munster so if he comes on, he’s familiar with that.”

Niall Scannell to start for Ireland in Italy as captain Best misses out

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