24 Feb 2010

Changes to Ireland rugby team

6:04 am on 24 February 2010

Jonathan Sexton will start at flyhalf for Ireland ahead of Ronan O'Gara in this weekend's Six Nations rugby match against England while Geordon Murphy returns at fullback.

The changes are two of four announced by coach Declan Kidney after last year's grand slam champions lost 33-10 to France 10 days ago.

Rory Best comes in at hooker as Jerry Flannery starts a six-week ban for kicking a French opponent and Donncha O'Callaghan is selected ahead of Leo Cullen in the second row.

Munster prop John Hayes, who has not missed a Six Nations match since making his debut 10 years ago, will earn his 100th cap.

England named an unchanged side from their second win of the championship against Italy last time out.

Jonny Wilkinson has shaken off some muscle tightness and retains his place at flyhalf.