The Six Nations opener in Paris was Osborne’s first outing since the win over Japan in November

Ulster player has cemented the inside centre position with his offloading game a key part of Ireland’s attack

Robert Baloucoune, James Lowe and James Ryan were among the best performers at the Aviva Stadium

We have reached point where not winning the Six Nations is framed as decline

Nick Timoney, Iain Henderson and Jacob Stockdale all available for selection

There were positives, but head coach only has a little over two months until Six Nations starts

Connacht star looked like a seasoned fullback as he dominated proceedings and scored a hat-trick

New Zealand may have built their game around structure for the last few years, but the current group are rediscovering that attacking instinct

Both Ulster and the Sharks can copperfasten a last-eight tie in front of their own supporters should they win

French aristocrats show their mettle to secure one-point aggregate win

The defending champions have shown before in Belfast how dangerous they can be

Ulster’s lead heading into the second leg could have been more if not for Ntamack

Flanker back on track after frustrating spell at Munster and enjoying his best season yet

Win could potentially see McFarland’s side leapfrog Leinster into pole position

Connacht’s hopes hit by two yellow cards as poor run continues for Andy Friend’s side

McFarland’s side on course for the chance of a home quarter-final in Belfast

James Ryan and Iain Henderson have both been sidelined of late

Forwards coach Roddy Grant expects another fierce physical test against French side

Ulster and Ireland winger has not played since opening game of the season

Absence of influential trio Cooney, Henderson and McCloskey may tilt balance