Six Nations: Eoin Reddan stands out as the only uncapped player named in Eddie O'Sullivan's 22-man squad announced today ahead of Ireland's Six Nations opener against Italy.

O’Sullivan had the luxury of an injury-free panel to choose from which made reducing the numbers a difficult task, so, as before he placed a strong emphasis on current form.

"There were some very hard calls made to reduce the squad to our match 22, but as always we have gone with the players in form at this time," said O’Sullivan in buoyant mood after Leinster and Munster both showed great form in the Heineken Cup last weekend.

"With the performances of the provinces in European competition last weekend, there is certainly a good positive feeling in the camp, but the players and staff are well aware of the challenge that Italy will represent next weekend. The game is certainly going to be a tough opening test as it was last year."

Aside from the inclusion of Wasps’ scrumhalf Reddan, Munster hooker Jerry Flannery has also been named in the squad and will be challenged by Ulster's Rory Best for the hooker's position.

Flannery’s provincial team-mate David Wallace also makes the squad after he last started for Ireland in their second test against Japan in June last year.

Ireland’s Six Nations campaign gets under way against the Azzurri on Saturday, February 4th at Lansdowne Road.

Ireland squad to face Italy:

Forwards (12): Rory Best, Simon Best, Simon Easterby, Jerry Flannery, John Hayes, Marcus Horan, Denis Leamy, Donncha O'Callaghan, Paul O'Connell, Johnny O'Connor, Malcolm O'Kelly, David Wallace

Backs (10): Tommy Bowe, Gordon D'Arcy, Shane Horgan, David Humphreys, Geordan Murphy, Brian O'Driscoll, Ronan O'Gara, Eoin Reddan, Peter Stringer, Andrew Trimble