Ulster duo relishing Ireland chance
Ireland debutants Matt McCullough and Roger Wilson are both relishing the prospect of lining up in the first Test against Japan on Sunday.
The Ulster second-row pairing of lock McCullough and number eight Wilson is part of a blend of youth and experience forged by tour coach Niall O’Donovan, who has also handed a second start to 21-year-old Ulster wing Tommy Bowe.
For Wilson the match in Osaka is an opportunity not to be missed.
“Training had gone really well for me during camp and it was just a case of keeping my head down and working hard,” the 23-year-old said.
“When the team was read out it took a moment for it to sink in, but after the initial excitement the reality of the job at hand took over.
“The team all realise that a good performance will be required if we want to win on Sunday. My parents are travelling for the games, so it will be extra-special for me to have them there to watch me win my first cap.”
For McCullough, also 23, he is glad to be given the chance by O’Donovan, particularly in a side still containing over 300 caps of Test experience.
“Like Roger, I was delighted when I heard my name read out,” he said.
“The competition for places has been excellent and Niall has tried a couple of combinations during training, so I was delighted to get the nod. My focus now is to try and do my job to the best of my ability and hopefully contribute to a win on Sunday against a tough Japanese team.”
Outside-half David Humphreys will captain the side on the occasion of his 68th Test cap while Gavin Duffy starts at outside centre as cover for Lions captain Brian O’Driscoll.
Anthony Horgan collects his fifth cap on the left wing while Marcus Horan starts at loosehead prop.
