How Irish stars rate in race for Lions places
Ireland were expected to be well represented in the Lions’ Test line-up this summer as observers finalised their pre-RBS 6 Nations side to face the All Blacks.
But a disappointing championship has done little to enhance several players’ chances. Here we take a look who is in the running for Test match selection before the tour begins.
Certainty:
Brian O’Driscoll. Some bookies have stopped taking bets on O’Driscoll being named Lions captain. Has no genuine rivals for the job and as the world’s best centre is assured of his position in the team with the Six Nations underlining his enormous talent yet again.
Probable:
Paul O’Connell. The mighty Munster second row may not have enhanced his reputation during the tournament, but he did not damage it either. O’Connell is the number one lock in the British Isles and looks certain to feature against the All Blacks.
Possibles:
Malcolm O’Kelly. A towering performance against France confirmed Ireland’s most capped player is still a quality operator. Endured a miserable tour to Australia with the Lions in 2001 and is desperate to make amends.
Gordon D’Arcy. Destined to be one of the stars of the Six Nations until a hamstring injury in the opener cruelly ended his championship. Gavin Henson looks a shoo-in alongside O’Driscoll in the centres, but D’Arcy is a class act and could challenge.
Geordan Murphy. An inconsistent Six Nations has seen Murphy slip down the pecking order. Failed to provide Ireland with the penetration expected from a player of his undoubted quality. Will find it hard to shift Gareth Thomas or Jason Robinson at full-back.
Long shots:
Johnny O’Connor. Improved as the Six Nations progressed and gave a fine account of himself in difficult conditions against Wales. A scavenger and excellent support runner, but Sir Clive Woodward is sure to select Lewis Moody or Neil Back at openside.
Shane Horgan. A fractured thumb ruled him out of the business end of the Six Nations – and Ireland paid the price. A powerful runner and clinical finisher, the Leinster ace is at home in the centre or on the wing. His versatility could be useful on the bench.
Donncha O’Callaghan. Spent the Six Nations on the bench but it is only a matter of time until he is a regular. Hard and aggressive, O’Callaghan could be perfect for a long tour to New Zealand. Several locks ahead of him, but could make his mark if asked to tour.
