This week on The Ireland Rugby Social, former Ireland international Mike McCarthy gives his take on a nail-biting 20-13 win over Italy in Dublin. We also catch up with Cormac Izuchukwu, who reflects on his Six Nations debut,

Brian O’Driscoll admitted some harsh truths about the current state of Irish rugby after Saturday’s narrow victory over Italy. The former Leinster star analysed Ireland’s nervy performance on ITV, discussing the ups and downs of their first Six Nations win in this campaign.

Ireland had to come from behind to avoid their first Six Nations home defeat by Italy on Saturday as their bench rode to the rescue in a 20-13 win that was a laboured response to a chastening opening loss to France.

The Irish government is implementing a pioneering scheme that will give 2,000 artists a basic income for three years, allowing them to focus on their creative output while maintaining an adequate standard of living.

The Football Association of Ireland approved a motion in November calling for Israel's banishment from UEFA, citing Gaza war, but now faces the team in Nations League Group B3.

Ireland 20 (Jamie Osborne, Jack Conan, Robert Baloucoune tries; Jack Crowley conversion, penalty), Italy 13 (Giacomo Nicotera try; Paolo Garbisi conversion, 2 penalties). HT: 5-10

Jamie Osborne, Jack Conan, Robert Baloucoune score tries for Ireland as they fight from behind to beat Italy in Dublin - avoiding first home loss to Azzurri; Impact of Jack Crowley in second half in place of fly-half Sam Prendergast proved huge,