Tommy Bowe thinks that Ireland are “looking good” ahead of the RBS Six Nations, which starts next month.
Declan Kidney’s side have produced inconsistent form over recent months, suffering defeats to both France and Scotland during their Six Nations defence 12 months ago before also being beaten by New Zealand and Australia last summer.
Ireland’s autumn international campaign started with a disappointing loss to South Africa but they rounded the month off with a much-improved display against the All Blacks and a record win over Argentina.
Ospreys back Bowe believes they are moving in the right direction as they seek to repeat their historic Grand Slam success in the Six Nations two years ago.
He told Sky Sports News: “We are looking good. We finished November quite well, we lost to New Zealand but we showed we could play a bit of rugby, and we had a good win against Argentina. It’s now important that we get off to a good start against Italy.
“We have a few new faces in the squad but two years ago we won the Grand Slam so the pressure is on and there is an expectation level there.
“We have had a few injuries but until those players come back it will be exciting for the guys that come in.”
Difficult
Ireland open their campaign against Italy in Rome on February 5 having never lost a Six Nations game against the Azzurri.
Even so, Bowe thinks that Nick Mallett’s side will be a tough proposition thanks to the inclusion of Treviso and Aironi in the Magners League this season.
He said: “Obviously to win a Grand Slam you need to win all your games and we will need to start well. But Italy will be tough to beat and their sides have done well in the Magners League.
“Treviso have a great home record and those players will be involved in their squad so it will be a difficult place to go.”
Although naturally keen to talk up Ireland’s chances, Bowe also thinks that England and defending champions France will field dangerous teams.
However, Martin Johnson’s side head into the competition without captain Lewis Moody, Courtney Lawes and Tom Croft.
“It’s going to be tough without Lewis as he is one of their senior men and top players,” added Bowe.
“But the standard in England means it will give players the chance to come through and put their hands up with the World Cup coming up.
“France will be difficult but we have England and them at home this year. They will be tough to beat but it’s a very open competition.”
