Wales flanker James Botham will earn his 20th cap against Ireland in the Six Nations after impressing off the bench against Scotland. The 26-year-old, son of cricket legend Sir Ian Botham, had endured a turbulent international career with long spells out of the squad before his recent recall.

Botham's journey back to the Wales team included a knee injury that kept him sidelined during the November internationals. His January call-up from coach Steve Tandy came as a relief after fearing another exclusion despite strong form with Cardiff. The flanker made an immediate impact when replacing Taine Plumtree after just nine minutes against Scotland.

Botham's promotion to the starting XV sees him join Alex Mann and Aaron Wainwright in a reshuffled back row for Friday's crucial fixture. The Cardiff Blues teammates will look to build on Wales' improving performances as they face an Irish side that has won all three of their opening matches. Botham's selection represents both redemption and opportunity in what promises to be a defining moment in his international career.