If Ireland are to make history with three Six Nations titles, they will need the players who have delivered on the big stage.

It is expected that consistency will be key for Easterby and all the big hitters will remain.

Caelan Doris will lead a whole host of Leinster team-mates, including Andrew Porter, James Ryan, Garry Ringrose, Robbie Henshaw, James Lowe and Hugo Keenan.

Key prop Tadhg Furlong’s return from injury is timely, especially now Ulster’s Tom O’Toole is suspended for the opening two matches, but hooker Dan Sheehan has yet to return to action.

While Leinster will dominate, Munster are also likely to be represented in the squad with Tadhg Beirne, Conor Murray, Jack Crowley and Calvin Nash all squad regulars.

Prop Oli Jager could be recalled after missing November’s Tests through injury, but Peter O’Mahony is currently sidelined and time is ticking before Ireland’s opener on 1 February.

Connacht will be represented by centre Bundee Aki, prop Finlay Bealham and wing Mack Hansen, who will be free to play against England when his suspension ends.