DArcy, who emerged as one of the players of last years tournament after initially being seen as a reserve only, missed all three of Irelands November internationals with a groin injury sustained on European Cup duty.

But he returned to the Leinster ranks last month and is in line to renew his vaunted midfield partnership with Brian ODriscoll, with many observers tipping the duo to form the Lions centre pairing against the All Blacks.

Irelands riches in the back row have been acknowledged by OSullivan who has named seven players for the three positions as he prepares for what could be the Triple Crown holders best opportunity of taking the RBS 6 Nations title for many years.

Munsters Alan Quinlan is back in the frame after impressing for last seasons European Cup semi-finalists, and he is joined by highly-rated Ulster number eight Roger Wilson who will be chasing his first cap.

Wasps flanker Johnny OConnor is the man in possession of the number seven jersey but, with Denis Leamy and Eric Miller also featuring, he faces some stiff competition for the openside duties.

Ulster newcomers Kieran Campbell and Ronan McCormack are included in a squad skippered by ODriscoll, who will be anxious to give further indication of his leadership qualities with the Lions captaincy up for grabs this summer.

Keith Gleeson, Tyrone Howe, John Kelly and Neil McMillan were not considered for selection because of injury.

Squad:

Forwards - Simon Best (Ulster), Shane Byrne (Leinster), Reggie Corrigan (Leinster), Leo Cullen (Leinster), Simon Easterby (Llanelli), Anthony Foley (Munster), John Hayes (Munster), Marcus Horan (Munster), Bernard Jackman (Connacht), Denis Leamy (Munster), Eric Miller (Leinster), Ronan McCormack (Ulster), Donncha OCallaghan (Munster), Paul OConnell (Munster), Johnny OConnor (Wasps), Malcolm OKelly (Leinster), Frankie Sheahan (Munster), Roger Wilson (Ulster), Alan Quinlan (Munster).

Backs - Tommy Bowe (Ulster), Kieran Campbell (Ulster), Gordon DArcy (Leinster), Girvan Dempsey (Leinster), Gavin Duffy (Harlequins), Guy Easterby (Leinster), Denis Hickie (Leinster), Anthony Horgan (Munster), Shane Horgan (Leinster), David Humphreys (Ulster), Kevin Maggs (Ulster), Geordan Murphy (Leicester), Brian ODriscoll (Leinster), Ronan OGara (Munster), Shaun Payne (Munster), Peter Stringer (Munster).