Who is popular today?

Mack Hansen’s fast finishing has earned him a starting spot for Ireland’s 2022 Six Nations opener against Wales on Saturday. Gerry Thornley looks at the versatile Connacht back and what he brings to the table, as well as looking at Andy Farrell’s team selection - with just two changes to the starting XV against the All Blacks last November. Following a gap of almost two years, the Ireland under-20s will finally return to home soil in the Six Nations when they welcome Wales to Musgrave Park in Cork. Also this evening, there’s the re-scheduled URC derby between Ulster and Connacht at Kingspan Stadium. Stuart McCloskey and Tom Daly both return after lengthy absences.
Stephanie Meadow had a hole-in-one, the first of her LPGA Tour career, and Leona Maguire opened with a six under par 66 at the Drive On Championship in Florida on Thursday. Check out Philip Reid’s first round report here.
Following their penalty shoot-out win over hosts Cameroon, their second in this Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt are into the final against Senegal and, for those marketing the tournament, a battle between the continent’s two star turns awaits. Liverpool duo Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mané. Ralf Rangnick has acknowledged that Mason Greenwood’s arrest was discussed by Manchester United players but said the squad had trained well this week.
Tom Kiernan, one of the true giants of Irish rugby, has passed away at the age of 83. Indeed, in a career spanning half a century as player, coach and administrator, it’s doubtful anyone has left a bigger imprint on the sport in this country.