15 in ’15: JOE’s Ultimate XV from the 15 years of the Six Nations to date

Including three Irishmen. Is that enough?

Conor Heneghan

15 in ’15: JOE’s Ultimate XV from the 15 years of the Six Nations to date

Including three Irishmen. Is that enough?

Tonight’s clash between Wales and England at the Millennium Stadium marks the opening of the sixteenth season of the Six Nations since Italy made five become six back in the year 2000.

Ireland have only claimed the title twice in the 15 seasons since then, with France on top with five titles ahead of England and Wales on four Championships apiece.

That said, Ireland’s consistency during the middle of the last decade in particular is reflected in the fact that we have accumulated 100 points, only three behind France and two behind England, with Wales languishing a further 18 points behind in fourth place.

Before the start of this season’s competition, we decided to select an ultimate team made up of 15 incredible performers from the 15 seasons of the Six Nations to date and we can tell you it wasn’t an easy task.

While there was a strong urge to pick as many Irish representatives as we could, we had to be as fair-minded as possible and in the end only three Irish players made the final cut. Harsh? We’ll let you judge that one for yourself.

We still think it’s a hell of a team but if you’re inclined to disagree, feel free to let us know through the usual channels.