Though the players and management will dutifully and correctly stick to the 'one game at a time' mantra, this clash is probably best viewed as the first act in a two-part drama that could end with Ireland picking up the most significant prize in its rugby history - the Grand Slam.
Whatever about the public pronouncements, Declan Kidney's team selection suggests he is thinking along exactly the same lines - this XV is the first move in a plan that fully allows for the fact that Ireland have two games to win if they are to achieve their ultimate goal.
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Scotland v Ireland
Scotland v Ireland
