Hogg aims to make up for Dublin howler

SCOTLAND and Ireland have become such familiar and feisty foes in recent times – today is their fifth meeting in a little over two years – that the fixture is rarely lacking spice.

- BRYN PALMER

This Murrayfield contest may provide the tastiest of all given what is at stake for both sides, in the short and medium-term.

Scotland know victory will keep them in contention for a first-ever top-two Six Nations finish, and an outside title shot, while the fear of a third defeat should light fires in Irish bellies.

Moreover, the contest could have a significant bearing on the make-up of this summer’s Lions squad.

Ireland still have England to come in their final game. But for Scotland, having won at Twickenham and lost narrowly to Wales, this is a last chance to influence selection decisions against direct rivals.

There are intriguing battles wherever you look. Finn Russell v Johnny Sexton at fly-half; Jamie Ritchie v Tadhg Beirne at blindside; Jonny Gray v James Ryan at lock; Rory Sutherland v Cian Healy at loosehead; and Duhan van der Merwe v James Lowe for a wing berth?