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Ireland change three for Grand Slam decider

  • Story Highlights
  • Ireland make three changes to their side for Six Nations clash against Wales
  • Jamie Heaslip, Jerry Flannery and Tomas O'Leary in Declan Kidney's line-up
  • A victory in Cardiff will give Ireland their first Grand Slam success since 1948
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(CNN) -- Ireland have made three changes for Saturday's crucial Six Nations rugby finale against Wales -- as they attempt to win a first Grand Slam since 1948.

Jamie Heaslip goes over for the only try as Ireland won 22-15 at Murrayfield on Saturday.

Jamie Heaslip goes over for the only try as Ireland won 22-15 at Murrayfield on Saturday.

Number eight Jamie Heaslip, hooker Jerry Flannery and scrum-half Tomas O'Leary return fafter the 22-15 win over Scotland on Saturday.

Heaslip, the try scorer against the Scots, edges out Denis Leamy who is recovering from the shoulder injury he sustained at Murrayfield but is included on the bench.

Rory Best makes way for Flannery in the number two jersey despite doing little wrong in Edinburgh, while Peter Stringer can feel even more aggrieved after being rewarded for his man of the match display by being relegated to the bench.

Munster veteran Stringer created Heaslip's try with a superb break but he has not done enough to be retained in the side.

Head coach Declan Kidney has opted to persevere with Gordon D'Arcy at inside center with Paddy Wallace continuing on the bench. "The difference between the players is so small. The changes were partly for tactical reasons. It's about getting the right chemistry," Kidney told PA Sport.

A total of 11 players have started every one of Ireland's Six Nations matches this season and victory in Cardiff would complete the Grand Slam and claim Ireland's first championship title since 1985.

Wales must triumph by at least 13 points to successfully defend their crown.

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