Ireland’s Conor Murphy set to face off against Les Bleus star Dupont

Les Bleus are seeking to build on a resounding 50-10 victory over Italy, while the Irish are bidding to bounce back after a frustrating 21-16 loss to Wales.

Here, we take a closer look at one of the key duels that could help determine the outcome at the Aviva Stadium.

Antoine Dupont – France

Position: Scrum-half

Age: 24

Caps: 28

Debut: v Italy, 2017

Height: 5’8″

Weight: 13st 5lbs

Points: 40 (8t)

Win percentage: 57.14 per cent

Diminutive in stature, quick-thinking Dupont is capable of a moment of magic every time he touches the ball. The classy 24-year-old is arguably the sport’s leading number nine and, based on current form, considered in some quarters to be the best player on the planet. He became the first French winner of the Six Nations Player of the Championship in 2020 and his eye-catching performances continued in Saturday’s thumping win in Rome.

The creative Toulouse man possesses electric line-breaking abilities, accurate kicking skills, supreme self-confidence and should remain a focal point for Les Bleus for many years to come.

Conor Murray – Ireland

Position: Scrum-half

Age: 31

Caps: 88

Debut: v France, 2011

Height: 6’2″

Weight: 14st 7lbs

Points: 95 (14t, 5p, 5c)

Win percentage: 56.81 per cent

A veteran of three World Cups, two British and Irish Lions tours and a trio of Six Nations titles, Murray’s career is at a far more advanced stage than that of Dupont. The evergreen Munster man has been a permanent fixture for Ireland for almost a decade as part of a long-standing half-back partnership with skipper Johnny Sexton, and has consistently delivered. He is a calming presence for his country, a pinpoint kicker and among the world’s best passers. While Murray offers numerous areas of expertise, it is perhaps quick, decisive thinking which sets him apart from other scrum-halves.

Ireland will be without flanker Peter O’Mahony, who has been banned for three Guinness Six Nations matches after being sent off in Sunday’s defeat to Wales.

The 31-year-old will miss games against France, Italy and Scotland before being eligible to return against defending champions England on the final weekend of the tournament.

O’Mahony was dismissed by referee Wayne Barnes in the 14th minute of the 21-16 loss in Cardiff following a reckless shoulder-led hit to the head of Wales prop Tomas Francis.

The Munster captain was facing a suspension of six weeks for the offence but received a 50 per cent reduction due to his previous disciplinary record and conduct during Tuesday’s hearing.

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