By:
Conor Martin
Dan Sheehan says Ireland are embracing the underdog label as they head into the Six Nations, a refreshing shift after being favourites in recent years.
With expectations high in seasons past, the team now has the opportunity to let others carry the pressure, and Sheehan admits that suits them perfectly.
Last season, only champions France managed to beat Andy Farrell’s side, a reminder of the team’s quality. Yet Farrell himself handed over day-to-day leadership to Simon Easterby while he prepared for the Lions’ successful tour of Australia.
Even with that temporary change at the helm, Ireland maintained their composure and competitiveness, showing the depth of character in the squad.
The front row has become an area of focus, particularly with Andrew Porter and Paddy McCarthy missing from Farrell’s squad announcement on Wednesday. But Sheehan, widely regarded as one of the world’s top hookers, continues to set the benchmark.
His 16 international tries speak volumes about his ability to make an impact, whether through dynamic play around the breakdown or clever attacking bursts that turn tight moments into scoring opportunities.
Ireland have belief they can win the Six Nations
Sheehan is optimistic about Ireland’s chances as they kick off their Six Nations campaign, especially as they have named a strong squad for the competition.
Their first test takes them back to the Stade de France, revisiting the site of their 2023 World Cup quarter-final defeat to New Zealand.
Adding to the intrigue, the opener falls on a Thursday night, a new challenge in a competition where rhythm and routine can be as important as skill.
For Sheehan and his teammates, being the underdog is motivating rather than intimidating. Ireland are ready to channel that energy, combining experience, talent, and determination to turn perceived disadvantages into strengths.
With grit in the set-piece, flair in attack, and confidence growing in the ranks, Sheehan believes Ireland have all the ingredients to make a statement and perhaps even rewrite the script of the Six Nations.
Dan Sheehan knows France will put Ireland under pressure in Six Nations opener
Ireland open their campaign at the Stade in Paris, where they won well in 2024, but in an interview with the Irish News, the Ireland star reflected on that win but knows the Boys in Green will be pushed all the way when they meet France in February: “We got over the line, got ahead, and then things just got away from us. They have the ability to do that. They’re very good at keeping momentum once they get it.
“They have the talent across the board to keep putting you under pressure, through their kicking game or through individual talent and speed.
“It’s an 80-minute game and they’re never out of it, no matter how many points you put on them. They always have a way back it seems. It’s an 80-minute sort of mental performance that we need.”
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