Jordi Murphy has featured in both of Ireland's recent wins over New Zealand but will be making his first Six Nations start since 2015 in Rome.
Read reports for Friday's Premiership and Pro14 matches - and previews of the rest of the weekend's action.
A Wales v England Six Nations match in Cardiff attracts fans from all corners to sample a unique atmosphere, says chief sports writer Tom Fordyce.
A globe-trotting coach, a rapscallion play-maker and struggles on the road - why France and Scotland are kindred spirits.
England's form is so good they would beat the world champion All Blacks, according to Wales legend Shane Williams.
Team news, match preview and statistics for Sunday's match between Italy and Ireland at the Stadio Olimpico.
Damien Hoyland makes his first Edinburgh outing for 13 months as Cardiff Blues travel to Murrayfield in the Pro14.
Team news as Northampton Saints host Bath in Saturday's Premiership fixture at Franklin's Gardens (14:45 GMT).
Ireland's Chris Farrell says that he is looking forward to developing his centre partnership with Bundee Aki during Sunday's Six Nations encounter against Italy.
Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt says the players he has brought into the side for Sunday's Six Nations encounter against Italy have earned their opportunity.
Wales' last Six Nations win over England was in 2013. Can you recall their starting side?
Team news as Worcester Warriors host Leicester Tigers in Sunday's Premiership fixture at Sixways Stadium (13:00 GMT).
Leicester Tigers' world-renowned academy continues to bring through talent, but what is their secret?
Scotland's half-backs will "play like we want to play", says captain Greig Laidlaw as he prepares to partner Peter Horne in the Six Nations in France.
Wales are "desperate" for Gareth Anscombe to prove his fly-half credentials in Saturday's crunch match with England, says former flanker Martyn Williams.
Ireland forwards Sean Cronin, Dave Kilcoyne and Ultan Dillane all start a Six Nations match for the first time in Sunday's game in Italy.
England head coach Eddie Jones says Saturday's Six Nations game against Wales in Cardiff is a "great chance to spoil the party".
Team news as Exeter Chiefs host Newcastle Falcons in Saturday's Premiership fixture at Sandy Park (14:30 GMT).
BBC coverage details for this year's men's and women's Six Nations broadcast live across BBC TV, radio and online.
Team news as Dragons travel to Benetton in Saturday's Pro14 encounter at Stadio Comunale di Monigo (13:00 GMT).
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