Even the greatest of glories only last for so long and having recorded a spectacular Grand Slam triumph in the 2018 NatWest 6 Nations, Ireland now turn their attentions to dominating Down Under.
This month, Joe Schmidt’s side return to action in a three-Test series in Australia, going toe-to-toe with the Wallabies in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.
Having shone so brightly earlier this year, all eyes will be trained on the boys in green as they look to build on the legacy of their NatWest 6 Nations success.
There are also plenty of subplots among the squad Schmidt has selected to take on Australia – here’s our pick of three Ireland players to keep an eye on this summer.
Tadhg Beirne
A man who has had to bide his time patiently to make his Irish bow, Tadhg Beirne looks set to finally realise his international ambition against the Wallabies.
After two impressive seasons with the Scarlets in Llanelli, the 26-year-old lock has agreed to join Munster next term, rendering him eligible for Ireland selection.
The former Leinster man twice helped the Scarlets win the PRO14 in 2016-17 and was part of the side that made it all the way to the final once again this term, only to be defeated 40-32 by his former club at the Aviva Stadium.
In the PRO14 this season, Beirne produced 39 turnovers, 17 more than his nearest challenger, Cardiff Blues’ Nick Williams.
Having previously considered quitting the game after failing to fully break into the picture at Leinster, Beirne looks set to grasp his opportunity against the Wallabies with both hands.
Ross Byrne
The second previously-uncapped player selected by head coach Schmidt, Ross Byrne has also been presented with his chance to stake a claim for a regular Ireland berth.
The 23-year-old is part of the current glut of talented fly-halves among the Irish ranks and joins his Leinster club-mates Johnny Sexton and Joey Carbery Down Under – although the latter is set to join Munster next term.
Byrne made 20 appearances as Leinster won this season’s PRO14, kicking 116 points along the way, while he also demonstrated his creative ability as he came in third in the list of in-play kicks with 199.
Can Byrne demonstrate that he’s ready to make his mark at international level?
Jacob Stockdale
He fully demonstrated his devastating ability by stealing the show in the 2018 NatWest 6 Nations –will Jacob Stockdale’s next Ireland showing be just as spectacular?
The 21-year-old’s bow in Rugby’s Greatest Championship was thrilling, with the Ulster winger finishing as both top try-scorer and the 2018 NatWest Player of the Championship.
He bagged a record seven tries, scoring in wins against England, Italy, Scotland and Wales.
Will the Ulster flyer maintain his momentum and carve through the Australians like he did Ireland’s NatWest 6 Nations rivals?
