Ireland have not had a successful Six Nations up to this point, with the pressure growing on head coach Andy Farrell as a result.
The former England international took up the role after the 2019 Rugby World Cup, but it's fair to say that there has been little progress made since then. The team are still experiencing many of the same issues that plagued them during the tail end of the Joe Schmidt era.
Improved performances will be needed over the remainder of 2020, be it in the Six Nations or during the other international windows.
However, there has been some speculation that Farrell could be involved in The Lions tour to South Africa this summer. The 42-year old has previously worked with Warren Gatland on both the 2013 and 2017 tours to Australia and New Zealand respectively.
If he were to take part this year it could means he misses out on Ireland's summer tour, with fixtures in the Pacific island nations mooted.
Speaking to the media yesterday, Farrell said that no decision has been made as of yet.
You've got to ask, at the end of the day, whether you can go on both tours, you know? That decision will be out of my hands.
But, at the same time, you would say that there are fors and againsts, isn't there? On both sides. Having somebody on the Irish management on the Lions management: is that a benefit to our lads going?
What type of age group are those boys that are going on that (Pacific Islands) tour? Are they the next generation now for Irish rugby? What does the Irish tour look like? What does the Lions tour look like?
There's all sorts of things to do. That's why I've said all along my only remit will be to do what's right for Irish rugby.
This will split opinion. Many likely feeling Farrell should stick to his duties with Ireland, while others would see it as a potential learning experience for a relatively inexperienced head coach.
It will be interesting to see what decision he makes.
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