The Six Nations 2023 gets underway with a cracking opening clash between two fierce rivals in Cardiff this afternoon. The roof will be closed at the the Principality Stadium, where an intense atmosphere is guaranteed for what promises to be a lively curtain-raiser as favourites Ireland look to make an early statement in their bid for a first title since 2018 with the World Cup looming large later this year.
Andy Farrell’s side were narrowly edged out by France 12 months ago but bounced back to record a historic first series win in New Zealand followed by battling autumn victories over Australia and South Africa, securing top billing in the world rankings. Ireland will be favourites to get off to a strong start here, but have not won in the Welsh capital in this competition since 2013 and lost Jamison Gibson-Park to injury before kick-off.
For the hosts, Warren Gatland is back after a woeful final year under Wayne Pivac and a swift boost is badly needed amid all the behind-the-scenes turmoil that continues to engulf the Welsh Rugby Union. Follow Wales vs Ireland in the Six Nations live below!
Live updates
Full-time
Wales 10-34 Ireland
81 mins: Hansen looks set to touch down in the right corner after a cross-field kick but he’s hauled into touch at the last! So close.
The final whistle sounds.
80 mins: Ireland are pushing for try number five as the clock ticks into the red.
Herring with the lineout.
One more converted try would make this Ireland’s biggest-ever win in Cardiff I believe.
Watch: Van der Flier wraps up Ireland bonus point
75 mins: Wales back up to a full number but they are still giving away the penalties.
Kilcoyne and Herring into the front row for Ireland for the final minutes.
Off go Porter and Sheehan.
Hugo Keenan named man of the match. Fully deserved – he’s been exceptional.
TRY! Wales 10-34 Ireland | Josh van der Flier 72’
72 mins: Relentless from Ireland, whose overwhelming pressure tells to make use of that numerical advantage with Liam Williams still in the sin bin.
They keep the tempo up and smash their way to the line, with Van der Flier eventually running in unopposed underneath the posts.
A simply conversion for back-up fly-half Ross Byrne. Bonus point guaranteed!
70 mins: Ireland have been below-par in this second half, especially offensively but are now chasing a fourth try inside the final 10 minutes.
Some eye-catching hands and offloads, including great interplay between Hansen and hooker Sheehan out on the right flank.
Wales are scrambling desperately in defence inside their own 22 but this feels ominous.
Ireland want that bonus point on opening day!
68 mins: Superb defending again from Ireland as the rampaging North is held up excellently by a combination of Sexton and the imperious World Player of the Year Van der Flier.
Sexton off now for Ireland. Ross Byrne on.
Scott Cuthbert has also entered the fray on the Welsh wing.
Watch: Williams sent to sin bin for Sexton tackle
67 mins: Opportunity missed for Dyer, who could well have been away there.
Webb is then all over fellow replacement scrum-half Casey and Wales get a penalty which they kick to touch on the far side, inside the Irish 22.
Fly-half Owen Williams on for Wales. Off goes Biggar.
