The 33-year-old was expected to retire after the World Cup quarter-final defeat to Wales, but has thrown his hat in the ring ahead of the rematch in Dublin on February 5.

"I've spoken with Declan and we thrashed it out,” said Murphy, who has won 74 international caps.

“I didn't want to be one of those players who retired and then came back. I'm not looking at achieving a lot by holding a bag for a week or two.

"I suppose I'm on standby really. I said I'd hang around for another few months at least. But if there are any injuries, I'd be happy to come in and be a part of a match-day 22 or 23.”

One player who will be missing for the Six Nations is Munster back row Denis Leamy, who has gone under the knife to correct a long-standing hip problem.