Centre Dave McSharry believes missing out Ireland’s summer tour will pay off in the long run as he battles back to full fitness.
McSharry, 23, opted to undergo surgery on a troublesome hip last season, ensuring he missed the last four months of Connacht’s campaign, having featured in ten matches up to January.
His fine form for the province saw him rewarded with a call up to Ireland’s RBS 6 Nations training squad and earned him an appearance for the Irish Wolfhounds against England Saxons.
With a number of Ireland players – including fellow centre Brian O’Driscoll – away with the British & Irish Lions this summer, McSharry would have been firmly in contention for a place on Ireland’s tour to North America had he not gone under the knife.
But McSharry insists rectifying the problem early means he will be far better placed to win his first cap sooner rather than later.
“It was frustrating because I had been enjoying a run in the team and got the chance to be involved with Ireland as well,” said McSharry.
“It’s a bit of a strange injury but it’s something that needed to be done. There are a few players who have had it done, Sean O’Brien has, and they have come back stronger.
“I’m not too far away from fitness now and so I hope I only miss a couple of the games at the start of the season.
“Being part of the training squad with Ireland was an amazing experience and it’s something that I’d love to try and be a part of again.”
