Johnny Sexton may be a Guinness Six Nations veteran but the Ireland captain says that even a decade of experience in the Championship does nothing to stave off the nerves.
Sexton, a former World Rugby Player of the Year, has taken leadership responsibilities from the retired Rory Best, with the fly-half looking to lead his country to their first title since they claimed Grand Slam honours back in 2018.
And though the 34-year-old is relishing the challenge under the reign of new boss Andy Farrell, he understands the importance of quashing agitations as early as possible.
“I think the Guinness Six Nations, the week it comes around, you get nervous straight away,” he said.
“It’s my 11th go at it and I am as nervous as I was the first time I was called in. It’s a special Championship and it is a tough competition to win and do well in.
“We have to get that into the new guys in the team, that it is a step up and it is a big responsibility playing for your country in this tournament.”
