The Munster out-half gets the nod ahead of Ian Madigan.
Ian Keatley will start Ireland’s opening RBS 6 Nations clash with Italy on Saturday afternoon, while the fit again Conor Murray has also been named.
Jordi Murphy comes in to replace his Leinster team-mate Jamie Heaslip at No.8, while Sean O’Brien starts at openside.
The back three includes fullback Rob Kearney and wingers Tommy Bowe and Simon Zebo.
From SportsJOE: Jordi Murphy gets his chance to shine as Mr Unbreakable is sidelined
Interesting departure from @IrishRugby to name the Irish team to play Italy with their twitter handles. #Socialpic.twitter.com/nGjMyBSrGf
— Niall McGarry (@MrNiallMcGarry) February 5, 2015
