Six Nations 2026: ‘No second chance’ as Ireland prepare to clinch the Triple Crown against Scotland

For Scotland, the potential rewards are tantalizing: a first Triple Crown since 1990, a first win over Ireland since 2017, and perhaps a first title since the old Five Nations triumph of 1999.

Triple Crowns have been more plentiful for Ireland in recent years (they have won eight in the Six Nations era), but they have no plans of losing the edge in this rivalry 18 months after another World Cup competition.

Much of Ireland’s 11-win run over Scotland has been built on fast starts and they have been a difficult team to beat at home in recent years. In fact, they have not lost in their last 30 home games in the Six Nations when they were leading at half-time.

Whether Ireland captain Kellan Doris knows this statistic or not, he recognizes the importance of not giving oxygen to a confident Scottish unit early after seeing how Townsend’s side can tear apart teams.

“There’s no second chance here,” Doris said.

“It’s about how you start the game, a quick start will be important again. [It’s about] Taking it moment by moment, attacking the game and understanding the win is the most important thing.

“There are additional points and different permutations that go into it, but how we start is going to be important.”

He added: “Obviously the Triple Crown is at stake against our old rivals Scotland, so there is a lot at stake and with that comes tension and excitement.”