Farrell rumbles, Kieran leads the way for Ireland!
Bundee Aki is set to make his first appearance of this year's Six Nations against Scotland on Saturday [Getty Images] Andy Farrell says he expects Bundee Aki to sign a new Ireland deal after recalling the centre to his squad to face Scotland in Saturday's Triple Crown decider. Aki's centralised contract with the Irish Rugby Football Union expires at the end of the season. The Connacht centre has been integral to Ireland's recent success but will be 37 by the time of the next rugby World Cup in Australia in 2027.
When asked if he believes both Aki and Leinster wing James Lowe, who has also been linked with an Ireland exit at the end of the season, will agree new deals, Farrell said: "Yes, I do. "Obviously that's not up to me to comment on but I'm sure these things will get done down the line. "They've been fantastic players for us, servants for Irish rugby and will continue to be.
" The winner in Dublin [14:10 GMT] will lift the Triple Crown, and will then hope that England defeat France in Paris later on Saturday to claim the Six Nations title. Ryan ruled out as Ireland make four changes 'He can pull a rabbit out of a hat' - Conan on Russell Permutations as France, Scotland and Ireland chase title Head coach Farrell recalled Aki to his Ireland squad after he was suspended for the start of the Six Nations. Aki was banned after for Ireland's first three Six Nations matches - against France, Italy and England - for "verbal abuse and disrespect" towards match officials in Connacht's United Rugby Championship (URC) loss to Leinster.
He trained with Ireland ahead of the game against Wales but was not included in the matchday squad. Since linking back up with the training group, Farrell said Aki "made the dressing room feel right". "When it comes to big games, there's a twinkle in some people's eyes where you just know who's going to turn up," Farrell added.
"He's been there and done that in terms of big weeks and preparation and all that. "He's been pretty good for us with energy off the bench and I'm sure he'll bring more of that on Saturday. " 'Nothing would surprise me' Andy Farrell is hoping to lead Ireland to a fourth Triple Crown in five years [Getty Images] Farrell said that Scotland, who are chasing a first Triple Crown since 1990 and a first title since 1999, "can beat anyone on their day, as they have proven".