Keith Earls has been forced to withdraw from Ireland's RBS Six Nations clash with Wales on Sunday.
John Terry has been stripped of the England captaincy due to his upcoming trial for racism.
Wales have been boosted by the return of Jamie Roberts and Rhys Priestland for the RBS Six Nations clash against Ireland on Sunday.
Brian Cody is not in favour of inter-county managers being paid as he fears it would lead to calls for the sport to be professionalised.
Racing in Britain continues to be affected by the icy temperatures affecting Europe with several meetings abandoned and others under severe threat.
Pat Gilroy has named eight of the team that started last September's All-Ireland SFC final victory over Kerry for Saturday's rematch in Division One of the Allianz Football League.
A look ahead to the opening weekend of the 2012 RBS Six Nations Championship.
Fernando Alonso is brimming with confidence ahead of the new Formula 1 season, believing Ferrari have the skills to be ready to challenge for the world championship.
Connections of Binocular have a 'few options' but it is not clear where he will run next after the abandonment of Saturday's card at Sandown.
Narain Karthikeyan is to drive alongside Pedro de la Rosa at HRT, the Spanish team confirmed on Friday.