Eoin not going with Irish

Wasps scrum-half Eoin Reddan is a surprise omission from Ireland's extended squad for the RBS 6 Nations opener against France.

Reddan lost his place in the starting line-up for the autumn series to Tomas O'Leary and was expected to compete with the Munster half-back throughout the championship.

Instead, Munster's second choice number nine Peter Stringer has been preferred in the 27-strong party named on Friday - despite spending much of the season on the bench.

Head coach Declan Kidney has otherwise stuck largely with Ireland's tried and tested as they seek to register a rare victory over France, a team they last beat in 2003.

Ulster's uncapped prop Tom Court is the only newcomer and he will provide front row cover for John Hayes and Marcus Horan from the bench.

Court can operate on either side of the scrum and his call-up is reward for a superb season that has seen him flourish under Ulster's new coaching regime led by Matt Williams.