RBS SIX NATIONS: Ireland v Wales
Venue: Croke Park, Dublin Date: Saturday, 13 March Kick-off: 1430 GMT
Coverage: Watch on BBC One, BBC HD channel, Red Button and BBC Sport website; Radio 5 live, Radio Wales, Radio Ulster MW and Radio Cymru; text commentary on BBC Sport website and mobiles

Geordan Murphy starts for Ireland despite Rob Kearney's return to fitness

Geordan Murphy is close to agreeing a new three-year contract with Leicester as he plots his route to the World Cup.

The Guinness Premiership club's decision to offer their captain, who will be 32 in April, a lengthy deal represents a major vote of confidence.

The negotiations have coincided with Murphy's return to the Ireland team.

"It's a good offer and the club were happy to put it on the table," said Murphy, who again starts for Ireland against Wales on Saturday.

"I'm 31 now, so the new contract would take me to 35," added Murphy, who retains the Irish number 15 jersey despite Rob Kearney's return to fitness after injury.

"The way I play the game helps. I've never been a big-bosh monster.

"I don't run into people and don't try to make any massive hits. I just try to get by with what I've been given.

"I'm playing well and enjoying my rugby.

"I missed my first World Cup (in 2003) through injury and in the last one I didn't see a lot of game time.

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"I certainly want to be involved in the next one. I'll do whatever I can to get to that World Cup."

Murphy, who endured a mixed relationship with Kidney's predecessor Eddie O'Sullivan, was concerned for his Test future when he underwent a shoulder reconstruction last September.

Reassurance was provided by the new regime but having seen off the challenge for the number 15 jersey from former long-term rival Girvan Dempsey, Murphy knows he now faces a similar duel with fellow Lion Kearney.

"The management have been very good to me. When you get injured you worry about your place - you wonder is that me finished?" he said.

"But the management phoned me and said that wouldn't be the case.

"They said I'd be given the chance again and that came sooner with Rob getting injured.

"Rob is a world-class player and I give full credit to him for everything he's done in the last few years.

"And there's more to come from him - he can get better. Hopefully the rivalry will be good for each other."

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