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Murphy replaces the injured Jamie Heaslip at number eight. Dan Sheridan/INPHO
minimal change

Murphy at number eight as Schmidt opts for continuity in Ireland selection

Here’s the starting team and replacements to face England on Sunday afternoon.

JOE SCHMIDT HAS made just one change to his Ireland XV ahead of Sunday’s Six Nations clash with England.

Jordi Murphy comes into the team at number eight in place of the injured Jamie Heaslip, having worn the same shirt against Italy in round one.

Schmidt has resisted the temptation to start Cian Healy after his outing for Leinster against Zebre last weekend, while Iain Henderson is also kept in reserve.

The two new faces on the replacements bench are Tommy O’Donnell of Munster and Leinster’s Eoin Reddan, who replaces Isaac Boss.

Felix Jones retains the outside back position on the bench, meaning no place for Luke Fitzgerald or Keith Earls.

Ireland (v England)

15. Rob Kearney
14. Tommy Bowe
13. Jared Payne
12. Robbie Henshaw
11. Simon Zebo
10. Johnny Sexton
9. Conor Murray

1. Jack McGrath
2. Rory Best
3. Mike Ross
4. Devin Toner
5. Paul O’Connell (capt.)
6. Peter O’Mahony
7. Sean O’Brien
8. Jordi Murphy

Replacements:

16. Sean Cronin
17. Cian Healy
18. Marty Moore
19. Iain Henderson
20. Tommy O’Donnell
21. Eoin Reddan
22. Ian Madigan
23. Felix Jones

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