Let The Schmidt Hit The Fan - Rd 10 (LEIN)

Since the start of the season four bloggers, one representing each province, have taken turns selecting their ideal Irish matchday 23 for a test match to take place the following weekend (so current injury status must be taken into account).

This week it’s the turn of our Leinster representative Iain O'Connor to offer his matchday 23. 

Click this link for his last selection and these for the latest from Connacht, Ulster & Munster.

So what kind of year has it been? 6 Nations Champs. Leinster can salvage what is a disappointing season in the Rabo final, Munster had a few good results but on the whole disappointed, Ulster will probably feel they were cheated in the H Cup and underperformed slightly on where they should be and Connaught showed some spark but didn’t do much. Oh and we almost beat the All Blacks and some centre retired.

So basically a bloody good year for the green. A lot of bloody good youngsters stood up, Henry and Toner to name just 2, and some of the old heads showed why they shouldn’t be written out just yet, Best and Darcy spring to mind making selections for this bloody near impossible most months. I have decided to make it slightly easier this time; Joe has picked his squad for Argentina and I am picking the team. I disagree with a lot of his squad, one centre/wing/tragedy in particular, but I will pick within it for this.

I have gone with a mix of experience and youth in the starting team and on the bench. I am not guaranteeing a win against the Pumas, those are hard to come by lately, but I would say the W doesn’t matter. This comes down to performance at the expense of results.

1. J McGrath – Has had a good season. Needs game time on the big stage and this is his chance. Healy gets a well earned rest

2. R Best – Some experience wedged in the middle of a young front 3.

3. M Moore – Along the same lines as McGrath. Very few will argue with his inclusion and will go well for the experience.

4. D Toner – Seems like he has been around for a while but could do with bulking up his cap count. Last years tour was about him standing up and being noticed. This year it is all about others following his example.

5. P O’Connell – Personally would have left him at home. He will pass on some bits to the younger lads but I think he could better do with a rest. Still if he is there you gotta play him.

6. R Ruddock – Next seasons Chris Henry. Given the chance he will do serious things.

7. C Henry – This seasons Chris Henry. As with Dev T needs to up his cap count. Diack to feature heavily too.

8. J Heaslip – Again I would have left him at home as I think Murphy could do with the game time. He is going so I would play him half and half with Jordi.

9. K Marmion – Is he the next big thing? Maybe, maybe not. Give him a few games and see what happens. He can’t be worse than whats there at the moment

10. J Sexton - Leads a very young back line for me. Solid head to guide the others through. With Jacksons back issue Madigan plays understudy and I expect him to feature a lot. Expect lots of “Sexton Wrecked by being in France and having to deal with currency exchange” headlines if it doesn’t go our way.

11. A Trimble – Would have left him at home as he had a big season. Zebo will be given a chance to get over hyped and do comparatively very little by Joe but I don’t think he is good enough. If anybody mentions “x factor” or “spark” here I swear I will shove a flaming Simon Cowell up their nose.

12. L Marshall – Could do with uninterrupted game time. Needs to stay fit and concussion free for both tests.

13. R Henshaw – And first to try and fill his shoes is…. Looking forward to seeing what he can do. Has decided to stay put in Conn for a while longer and hopefully it is the right decision for Ireland and himself.

14. F Mc Fadden – Can move into centre if the inevitable happens to Marshall. Very worthy of a spot. Often overlooked.

15. R Kearney – Last bit of experience in the team. Would be nice to see him take a role as a leader more often.

16. D Varley

17. M Ross

18. D Kilcoyne

19. R Diack

20. D CAve

21. C Murray

22. P Jackson

With this being my last one of these I would like to say thanks to Harpin for giving me the space and you people for reading. I will also point out that during this I have been called Pro Leinster, Anti Leinster, Anti Ulster, Pro Ulster, Anti Munster and Pro Connaught. That doesn’t really sum it up. I am just Pro Ireland. I am not really anti anybody to be honest. Well… other than Keith Earls.

Iain O’Connor (@iain_not_ian) is a Leinster fan who should have retired from playing bad standard rugby years ago. Part time stand up comedian and full time radio person he is the presenter and creator of Heave, a schools rugby show on Dublin South FM. He also likes rugby league and names Alisona Taumalolo as his hero.

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Many thanks again to Iain for all the selections throughout the season! 

Next week it’s the turn of Munster fan Kate McEvoy…

Let The Schmidt Hit The Fan - Rd 9 (LEI)

Since the start of the season four bloggers, one representing each province, have taken turns selecting their ideal Irish matchday 23 for a test match to take place the following weekend (so current injury status must be taken into account).

This week it’s the turn of Leinster fan Iain O’Connor to look ahead for the Six Nations champions.

Click this link for his last selection and these for the latest from Munster, Connacht & Ulster.

So April is upon us. Spring has sprung and the 6 Nations celebration hangovers have gone. It is all about the H Cup and Rabo and the Irish sides are on the whole underperforming, with the exception of Ulster. Leinster are stuttering, Munster are looking thoroughly inconsistent and Conn are back to being kind of just Conn.

So here is my team. Half an eye on development, the other half on winning.  A couple of my selections are injured now I know, but I know HarpinOnRugby won’t mind ;-)

1. Cian Healy – More often than not he is Leinster and Irelands best performer. Jack McGrath is a worthy replacement and great to have in reserve. I am still not a fan of changing front rows mid way through the second half for the sake of it but Joe knows best.

2. Rory Best/Sean Cronin – With the same breath as what I have said above I am giving hookers a half each. Best has been picking up a few knocks over the past few years and I think Cronin is the only likely replacement long term, Strauss is pushing on in terms of age and I don’t rate Varley.

3. Mike Ross – The change of scrum laws have not been kind to Mike. Still our best option but was initially brought in due to his Rainman like attention to detail in the scrum, which is now like being an expert in non-lifting lineouts. Martin Moore looks good to replace him eventually and I would like to see him getting a full half. Ross needs to offer more in play to make up for the scrimmaging.

4. Dan Tuohy – Yes this is where Paul O’Connell usually is. But what will we learn from that and what effect will that have on Paul? I want to hold him off for the big games and get Tuohy more game time. I am keeping POC on the bench in order not to be lynched but normally I would have McCarthy or Henderson

5. Devin Toner – A lot has been talked about him this year. I won’t get into it as I would just be repeating others. Still ahead of McCarthy, Henderson or Ryan for me.

6. Peter O’Mahony/Stephen Ferris – A half each. To be honest if Fez keeps fit, we may see less and less of the best anthem singer in the West. This is not a slight on O’Mahony, he has been doing well, it is more a comment on how good (a fit) Ferris can be.

7. Chris Henry – Quickly becoming a favourite of mine. Awesome performances whenever he hits the paddock. Will Sean O’Brien be able to claim his shirt back when fit? Well, yes but he is a more than capable replacement.

8. Jamie Heaslip – My only worry is that if he gets hurt we still have no real replacement. O’Mahony at a stretch but we could really do with a youngster stepping up.

9. Kieran Marmion – I don’t know why but I think this lad has something. I have never been impressed with Murrays delivery speed or the amount he kicks, be it tactics or not, but more importantly we know Murrays game now. Giving Marmion a few games will hurt no one and could be revolutionary. It’s about time we rolled the dice.

10. Ian Madigan – As with Murray, we know what Jonny can do. We know he is the starter so why not see what happens? I have Madigan over Jackson purely because he kicks less. Ball possession is king in my book so keep the thing in hand at all costs.

11. Andrew Trimble – Man of the 6 Nations for me. In great form. The shirt is his as long as he keeps putting in a good shift.

12. Luke Marshall – He will be grand so long as he stops running at people with his head. A serious injury worry so I would have McFadden warmed up at all times.

13. Luke Fitzgerald –  Not a natural 13 but can do a job and can certainly use the ball in hand. I eventually see Henshaw there but for now he will have to come on and slot in until he gets used to international standard.

14. Tommy Bowe – Dave Kearney loses out for no real reason other than it’s Tommy Bowe.

15. Rob Kearney – Would like to see him subbed a bit to make sure we have a replacement but still our starter and one of the star players.

1. Cian Healy

2. Rory Best

3. Mike Ross

4. Dan Tuohy

5. Devin Toner

6. Stephen Ferris

7. Chris Henry

8. Jamie Heaslip

9. Kieran Marmion

10. Ian Madigan

11. Andrew Trimble

12. Luke Marshall

24. Luke Fitzgerald

14. Tommy Bowe

15. Rob Kearney

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16. Jack McGrath

17. Sean Cronin

18. Martin Moore

19. Paul O’Connell/Iain Henderson

20. Peter O’Mahony

21. Conor Murray

22. Paddy Jackson

23. Robbie Henshaw

Iain O’Connor (@iain_not_ian) is a Leinster fan who should have retired from playing bad standard rugby years ago. Part time stand up comedian and full time radio person he is the presenter and creator of Heave, a schools rugby show on Dublin South FM. He also likes rugby league and names Alisona Taumalolo as his hero.

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NEXT WEEK ON LET THE SCHMIDT HIT THE FAN - Our Munster blogger Kate McEvoy shares with us her latest Irish matchday 23

Let The Schmidt Hit The Fan - Rd 8 (LEIN)

Since the start of the season four bloggers, one representing each province, have taken turns selecting their ideal Irish matchday 23.

This week our Leinster representative Iain O’Connor kicks off the post-BOD era…

Click this link for his last selection and these for the latest from Ulster, Munster & Connacht.

So there it went. This time last year we were in crisis mode and this time this year we are on top of the world, well Europe anyway. What a difference 12 months makes.

I have refrained from doing this as a team of the year as there is a load of them knocking around and they are all the exact same 15 players. I have decided that if there was a game next week, this is what I would pick.

Before I start I want to address something that I feel is very important to get out in the open. A certain former number 8’s musings in a newspaper over the recent past. For those of you who haven’t had the pleasure basically Denis Leamy has been listing in a national newspaper Munster players who are aren’t appearing in green too often and claiming that geography is the reason they are not being picked.

Although he is clearly going for the shock factor, questioning selection on the eve of a title decider?  It is a sad state that even when we are winning we can’t get over regional bullshit. This may seem to some as a man sticking up for his province, as he is entitled to do, but this can wind up being quite dangerous and result in Keith Earls getting caps. And no one wants that. No one. Anyway, that’s out of my system so let’s move on.

1. Cian Healy – Still the best this side of the world. For the first time in a long time he came under pressure for his spot and came up with the goods. The trio on the bench have gotten some good game time but I would like to see church on for longer. He is not as old as the other 2 and I think can do a 70/80 stretch.

2. Rory Best – The front row unit has not worked this well in a long time so I wouldn’t split it up. Best always gives 100% and is fantastic in the loose. Would like to see Cronin earlier in matches.

3. Mike Ross – Has had a solid season thus far. Not setting the world alight but certainly not doing himself a disservice. Martin Moore is shaping up nicely to replace him in the next year or 2.

4. Paul O’Connell – Still has a lot to offer just in different ways. I wouldn’t have him as captain and before you scream Leinster bias here is why. It is easier, in my opinion to be a new captain with some other leaders on the field. Help ease into the role. POC is going to play like a leader regardless so why not let him blood someone new into the role before he retires. The question of who I will leave for another day. Moving to POC’s performance if we are being honest he has been grand. Couple of good moments, couple of not so good. Would love to see him go forever but the first (second, third? What are we up to now?) signs of him starting to slow down are for all to see.

5. Devin Toner – Levelling out to be quite a handy second row. Benefited from Mc Carthy and Ryan being out and made the slot his early on and has held off Tuohy and Henderson. If you could add a stone to him he would be the dream second row.

6. Peter O’Mahony – Has been good. Has developed beyond the scrapper to a more rounded player. Personally I thought he was anonymous in Paris but was great in the competition to that point. When O’Brien and if Ferris comes back he may drop way down the rankings for me. Also his Irelands Call needs a lot of work.

7. Chris Henry – My player of the tournament. Has been awesome. Early stutters have been long forgotten and he is in great form. First name on the sheet for me.

8. Jamie Heaslip – Has been getting his hands on the ball a bit more without O’Brien, Ferris etc. and has been playing more visibly as a consequence. Still gets through a Trojan amount of work. Nobody comes close to taking his spot at the moment. Ruddock for me provides back row cover until Ferris is fit (he will be fit, if we believe it will happen). Did well every time off the bench and went about it with no nonsense.

9. Conor Murray – I said last month that I think he kicks way too much and way too loose. I stand by that. Ball in hand he is unstoppable, why doesn’t he do that more? As for challengers Marmion and Paul Marshall are the long term options. Argentina could be a chance to get them time.

10. Jonny Sexton – Tired? No chance. Streets ahead in terms of the 10 shirt. I prefer Jackson on the bench for a different style of game. People are critical of his kicking in Paris but the 2 5 pointers tend to outweigh that argument. Lets face it, Carlos Spencer never kicked a goal in his life…

11. Andrew Trimble – If Henry was man of the tournament Trimble was only just behind him. At the start of the season he was seen as a touch of a wild card but I think he is now our number 1 winger.

12. Fergus McFadden – It pains me to say it but by the end of the England game we looked tired in the middle of the park. I hate to say it but I think Darcy looked wrecked and slow. Enough fight in him to get through the championship but I think he should be taking a back seat from here. Mc Fadden is not my first choice as I would run with Luke Marshall but he can do a job. Other options are Bowe in the short term when he is fit or Madigan. I would stump for McFadden.

24. Robbie Henshaw – So here it is. This was the easy part of writing these things. Firstly I am retiring the 13 shirt for the year, it’s only fair, and secondly that is the only bit of nostalgia I will be going for. We need a clean break. Whoever sits into second centre has to be allowed to make it their own and not constantly be compared to BOD. Everybody take a moment to remember that the first time you see someone new in the 13 shirt please.

I am going for Henshaw but that is on the flip of a coin. If Fitzgerald was fit I would probably have gone for him. Cave is another option as is Olding or Bowe again. I would take Henshaw as I like his style. I do think he needs to get out of Conn or Conn need to improve. This position will be problematic and will take some tuning. It is also a massive one to fill.

14. Dave Kearney – Thought it was a bad call to promote him so early at the start of the 6 Nations. I was wrong. I am happy to admit it. As for other back 3 players, Bowe will have a fight to get back in and I think Zebo should be out in the cold for a little longer. With Zebo teams tend to expect a flash of magic from him and let the system suffer due to that. I also just don’t like him or the way he wears his socks. So there.

15. Rob Kearney – Has a maturity about his game now that I never remember being there. A real leader. Also the head popping out of the ruck meme made me laugh at an awkward moment on a bus.

1. Cian Healy

2. Rory Best

3. Mike Ross

4. Paul O’Connell

5. Devin Toner

6. Peter O’Mahony

7. Chris Henry

8. Jamie Heaslip

9. Conor Murray

10. Jonny Sexton

11. Andrew Trimble

12. Luke Marshall

24. Robbie Henshaw

14. Dave Kearney

15. Rob Kearney

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16. Jack McGrath

17. Sean Cronin

18. Martin Moore

19. Iain Henderson

20. Rhys Ruddock

21. Kieran Marmion

22. Paddy Jackson

23. Tommy Bowe

Iain O’Connor (@iain_not_ian) is a Leinster fan who should have retired from playing bad standard rugby years ago. Part time stand up comedian and full time radio person he is the presenter and creator of Heave, a schools rugby show on Dublin South FM. He also likes rugby league and names Alisona Taumalolo as his hero.

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NEXT WEEK ON LET THE SCHMIDT HIT THE FAN - Our Munster blogger Kate McEvoy shares with us her latest Irish matchday 23

Let The Schmidt Hit The Fan - Rd 7 (LEIN)

This week it’s the turn of our Leinster blogger Iain O’Connor to name his Ireland team….a Triple Crown winning selection please, sir!

Click this link for his last selection and these for the latest from Connacht, Ulster & Munster.

They say you should never make a decision while angry. On Sunday I had decided to pick Neil Francis in every position, including Top, Bottom and Reverse Cowboy but out of respect for the site and people in general I just couldn’t be arsed.

Anyway. To business. Triple Crown deciders don’t come along every year, well not any more they don’t. The Scottish game was good, the Welsh game was better and I am hoping the progression is visible again this week. It has been a very settled side thus far in the championship and I am a firm believer in if it ain’t broke… just tinker with it slightly. I don’t think we are at the stage where complacency is an issue so I would say keeping the team as is on the whole is the way to go.

I disagree with a few of the team but 2 wins out of 2 and starting to build in confidence is not the time to ring change for the sake of it. Especially when there is a recently made up bit of silverware to compete for.

I have been unimpressed with England this season. They have been weak, especially in the centre and outside backs. That is where we can hurt them so my game plan would be simple. Lineout, brief maul, flash wide eventually. I have picked the side accordingly.

1. Cian Healy – No Dan Cole means that either a very young or very unfit prop in a white shirt is in for a bad day at the office.

2. Rory Best – Not my first choice hooker but is working well and like I said above, no point in upsetting it at this stage. Needs to be on form with the darts to get the rolling maul working.

3. Mike Ross – Needs a big day out to restore a bit of faith. Not doing anything wrong per say, just hasn’t been up to the standard of recent years. Moore, McGrath and Cronin will be on around the 65 min mark.

4. Paul O’Connell – If he doesn’t get another sniffle he will start. We are grand if he doesn’t which is nice to see. Still though, chest infection? Wuss

5. Devin Toner – I would stick with the long armed monster as his prowess in the lineout may be our best weapon. Tuohy, before injury, Henderson and McCarthy have pitched good claims too but for this one I am with Dev. Ryan just back from injury doesn’t get a look in in my book.

6. Peter O’Mahony – Game Face, as he should be better known, has been great thus far. Need to shut up with the ref and to stop butchering the anthem but all in all has been playing out of his skin.

7. Chris Henry – Has been a revelation, which kinda wasn’t surprising. He has gone under the radar slightly with O’Mahony taking most of the plaudits but has gone about his business and popped up with a deserved try. Will take some moving from the back row when injuries start to return.

8. Jamie Heaslip – Solid as always. O’Donnell provides back row cover on the bench but only just ahead of Jordi Murphy.

9. Conor Murray – I don’t see what everyone is banging on about with his box kicking. I think it has been poor. For me a good box kick is one you win back but hey, I am an idealist. Playing well regardless. Redden on the bench for me, Boss is unlucky but I have to make some changes or else it looks like I haven’t tried. Would like to see Marmion on the bench for France and Italy.

10. Jonny Sexton – Laurence Dellaglio is right. If they stop/hurt/maim him they have a chance. They don’t have anyone to stop him so it’s no panic.

11. Andrew Trimble – I for one thought starting him was madness. I for one have been happy to be proved wrong. It has been great to see him back to form again and long may it continue.

12. Gordon Darcy – I am not going to lie. If Luke Marshall had a beard it would be a much tougher call. Can still make the 1 and 2 yard breaks from standing starts (against 12 trees these actually translate to 5 and 6 yard breaks) and gets you going forward when you need it most. This twilight of his career is suiting him. Must be all the pilates

13. Brian O’Driscoll – 3 more games and he is out. Enjoy him while he lasts.

14. Fergus Mc Fadden – Dave Kearney is unlucky to miss out. I really have no real reason for making the change. We will lose something under high balls but will gain something in defence and go forward ball. Let’s face it though, the English wings are of a standard that an over 40’s would keep contained and score against so it doesn’t really matter. Will cover the centre too with Kearney Jr. on the bench

15. Rob Kearney – He is the protector of boy bands. Enough said.

1. Cian Healy

2. Sean Cronin

3. Mike Ross

4. Paul O’Connell

5. Devin Toner

6. Peter O’Mahony

7. Chris Henry

8. Jamie Heaslip

9. Conor Murray

10. Jonny Sexton

11. Luke Fitzgerald

12. Luke Marshall

13. Brian O’Driscoll

14. Andrew Trimble

15. Rob Kearney

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16. Jack McGrath

17. Sean Cronin

18. Martin Moore

19. Iain Henderson

20. Tommy O’Donnell

21. Eoin Redden

22. Paddy Jackson

23. Dave Kearney

Iain O’Connor (@iain_not_ian) is a Leinster fan who should have retired from playing bad standard rugby years ago. Part time stand up comedian and full time radio person he is the presenter and creator of Heave, a schools rugby show on Dublin South FM. He also likes rugby league and names Alisona Taumalolo as his hero.

Let The Schmidt Hit The Fan - Rd 6 (LEIN)

The latest Irish team selection in our season-long project is from Leinster blogger Iain O’Connor…

Click this link for his last selection and these for the latest from Munster, Connacht & Ulster.

Remember…the general rule is to select a team based on current fitness for a test match to be played the following weekend.  The contributors are allowed some leeway however, since it’s all to get debate going.  Once it’s friendly debate of course! JLP

Count down is on to the 6 Nations and the next era of Irish rugby. For this one there is no more gimmicks or tricks, this is just my team chosen from the extended squad. There are only a few notable absences through injury but all in all this is my team to take to the field against the Scots on February 2^nd.

1. Cian Healy – Big time player. We miss him when he is gone so he is most peoples number 1. Jack McGrath gets the understudy spot but would love to see Ah You get a shot to see what the commentators can come up with.

2. Sean Cronin – I bring this on myself I suppose but for me still our best option at hooker with Rory Best the old head to come off the bench. Now let the barrage of anti-Ulster abuse commence.

3. Mike Ross – It is Mike Ross but only just. Still clinging on but I think he is the weak link in the front row. Not having a great season but still better than any other option. Has the added bonus of being familiar to the other 2 front row players but I would see him as under threat.

4. Paul O’Connell – Joe made him captain so he is kind of nailed on. Will see how the body holds up through the 6 Nations but if it fails there is depth in the second row like never before. Tuohy, Henderson and McCarthy all playing well and pushing for game time.

5. Devin Toner – Form has dipped a little bit from the stellar heights he was hitting at the start of the season but I still think he is worth a throw in the big outings. Toss up between him and Henderson for me. I have gone with Toner but depending on opposition and tactics I could easily go for the Ulsterman.

6. Peter O’Mahony– I still think O’Mahony is behind 3 others in the back row pecking order but with injuries in mind he is more than capable of starting. With everyone fit it would be an SOB and Henry combo.

7. Chris Henry – As I said above would like to see him and SOB together. Still relatively untested at this level but sure wasn’t everybody at some point? Hopefully stays fit for the duration. The young duo of Ruddock and Jordi Murphy are also worth squad places and ones to watch in the next few years but the bench spot goes to Robbie Diack. Good performer and gets through the work, fair play to Joe for calling him up but now he has to use him.

8. Jamie Heaslip – Good old Marmite Jamie. There has been a lot talked about him in the last while in the press with his contract up in the air and the whole France but for me he is still the best in the business. People forget there is good reason clubs are chasing him. Tommy O’Donnell is playing well but isn’t at the same standard.

9. Conor Murray – The man who misses out the most in this team is Eoin Redden. Basically I want Marmion on the bench and don’t want a Leinster centric team. Redden is playing fantastically and should get the nod but my messed up logic means he is in the stands. Murray on the other hand, you get what you pay for. He will be solid. Marmion on the bench is exciting and could spark a game when brought on.

10. Jonny Sexton – Not having it all his own way with Racing but still offers the total package. Toss up between Jackson and Madigan for the understudy shirt. Madigan gets it on style for me.

11. Luke Fitzgerald – The starting wingers at the moment is probably the most debatable spot on the pitch. So many players going well and with a vast array of talent. Call it nostalgia or potential but I have gone for Luke Fitzgerald on the left. He is getting back to great form and could potentially be a game changer. Zebo and Gilroy have been brought into the squad so that gives you an indication of what Joe is thinking but I would have neither in the 23.

12. Luke Marshall – D’Arcy and his Pilates beard aside I am sticking with a bit of youth at 12.

13. Brian O’Driscoll – No real point in explaining. Henshaw on the bench covering most of the backline can slot in if needs be.

14. Dave Kearney – Playing well. As said above could be one of a number of players on the wing. Brings a nice balance to the back 3. Could lose his spot if others are fit or impress.

15. Rob Kearney – Solid as always.

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1. Cian Healy

2. Sean Cronin

3. Mike Ross

4. Paul O’Connell

5. Devin Toner

6. Peter O’Mahony

7. Chris Henry

8. Jamie Heaslip

9. Conor Murray

10. Jonny Sexton

11. Luke Fitzgerald

12. Luke Marshall

13. Brian O’Driscoll

14. David Kearney

15. Rob Kearney

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16. Jack McGrath

17. Rory Best

18. Stephen Archer

19. Iain Henderson

20. Robbie Diack

21. Kieran Marmion

22. Ian Madigan

23. Robbie Henshaw

Iain O’Connor (@iain_not_ian) is a Leinster fan who should have retired from playing bad standard rugby years ago. Part time stand up comedian and full time radio person he is the presenter and creator of Heave, a schools rugby show on Dublin South FM. He also likes rugby league and names Alisona Taumalolo as his hero.

Let The Schmidt Hit The Fan - Rd 5 (LEIN)

The latest of our provincial bloggers to name their best current Ireland team is our Leinster representative Iain O’Connor.

When we started the project back at the beginning of the season, the idea was to select a team available to play next weekend, but now we’re in round 5 it’s only fair to give the selectors a bit more leeway so from here on in we will leave it to them to decide.

Click this link for his last selection and these for the latest from Ulster, Munster & Connacht.

So this Christmas, and what have you done?

Well if you are reading this as a member of the Irish rugby team the answer to that is quite a lot. In the last year Irish rugby has gone through some (almost) dizzying highs and some subterranean lows. The loss to the All Blacks, although it is still a loss, is the best I think I have ever seen an Ireland team play. If you put this alongside Ireland V Italy from the 6 Nations it is like watching the New Park under 13 D’s in comparison to a well drilled, although not perfect, International side.

Right, I contemplated doing a kind of team of the year but there will be plenty of that around in the next few weeks so instead I give you my team for a game to be played on Christmas Day. Think 1914 Football in the trenches with less war and more importantly less soccer.

With a good showing against Toulouse I am ashamed to not get more Con players in but they are pushing hard for more representation if they keep pulling out results and performances.

1. Jack McGrath – Has come on in leaps and bounds and with Cian Healy being sidelined he is the number 1 number 1.

2. Sean Cronin – Last time out I dropped Rory Best and took a fair bit of flack. He subsequently scored a try and broke his arm. I am still unchanged in my thinking that Cronin is the future and I think that with a lot of game time he will only get better. I do wish Rory a speedy recovery and hopefully he can take the backup number 2 shirt soon.

3. Mike Ross – For me hasn’t really impressed but gets in due to lack of other options. Martin Moore in reserve with the youngster looking good for a prop of his age.

4. Paul O’Connell – After the disaster against Australia he plucked himself up and had a good game against New Zealand. Would like to see him used more sparingly but when he needs to he can still hit the heights he used to.

5. Devin Toner – My player of the year. Great tour performance in the USA, cemented his place in the Leinster set up and getting good game time for Ireland. Anyone who refers to him as awkward and a liability clearly hasn’t watched him in a while.

6. Peter O’Mahony/Rhys Ruddock – Peter O’Mahony gets the first half with Ruddock coming on at half time. The 2 games against Northampton have finally announced Ruddocks arrival in the big time with 2 great performances (second game less so but he looked good in a bad bunch)

7. Sean O’Brien – Is he injured? Is he in France? Is he under the stairs? If he is fit he plays if not it is Shane Jennings.

8. Jamie Heaslip – For me he is quickly becoming the complete number 8. Clever, strong and a leader on the park. I am still taken aback by how divisive his selection can be but as far as I am concerned he is top dog at 8.

9. Conor Murray – Signed a new 2 year deal, I could have sworn he only used to work in threes, and gets the nod ahead of Redden, just. I will never understand why he kicks so much ball away and he owes me a new tv remote after I threw mine across the room when he kicked away in the closing stages of the New Zealand match. Still has a lot of flaws but the best we have for now.

10. Ian Madigan – In ahead of Jackson this time round but I will probably change my mind again in a few weeks. Showed a new maturity against Northampton first time round. J10 is back in when he is good and ready.

11. Luke Fitzgerald – He’s back baby! Well hopefully. Finally Luke is looking like Luke of old. If the rugby gods have any decency he will get an injury free period to really flourish.

12. Luke Marshall – It is a toss up between him and a rejuvenated Darcy. Maybe a half each but would like to see Marshall get more game time, hopefully concussion free.

13. Brian O’Driscoll – I am beginning to wonder if playing him is in his own benefit health wise, but if he is fit he can play. On a side note, very nice to see him agree with the doc’s decision to not let him play the last few mins against the Kiwis.

14. Fergus McFadden – Coming to the top in a position where we are overloaded with suitable players. Between him, Bowe, Trimble, Zebo, Gilroy, Carr, Henshaw, Dave Kearney etc. we have injury dependant options.

15. Rob Kearney – Used to be known for his high ball. Now known for not even wanting to take half time off.

1. Jack McGrath
2. Sean Cronin
3. Mike Ross
4. Paul O’Connell
5. Devin Toner
6. Peter O’Mahony
7. Sean O’Brien
8. Jamie Heaslip
9. Conor Murray
10. Ian Madigan
11. Luke Fitzgerald
12. Luke Marshall
13. Brian O’Driscoll
14. Fergus Mc Fadden
15. Rob Kearney

---

16. Martin Moore
17. Damian Varley
18. James Cronin
19. Mike McCarthy
20. Rhys Ruddock
21. Eoin Redden
22. Dave Kearney
23. Robbie Henshaw

Iain O’Connor (@iain_not_ian) is a Leinster fan who should have retired from playing bad standard rugby years ago. Part time stand up comedian and full time radio person he is the presenter and creator of Heave, a schools rugby show on Dublin South FM. He also likes rugby league and names Alisona Taumalolo as his hero.

Let The Schmidt Hit The Fan - Rd 4 (LEIN)

Our Leinster blogger Iain O’Connor has the unenviable task of picking an Ireland team to face the All Blacks…

Click here for his last selection and these links for the most recent ones from Connacht, Ulster & Munster.

So here we are. Our test series thus far is 50/50 and I have the honour/nightmare of coming up with a team to face the All Blacks. So strap in.

A couple of things on the Aussie game before we get into it, It was disappointing. No more no less. Although we played poorly in almost every part of the pitch I think the most worrying thing is the lack of a try or anything that looked like it may turn into a try (Sean Cronin aside). For me the younger elements of the team were the ones that stood up and put in something closer to a proper shift than the older lads. If Paul Kimmage turns out to be right about Paul O’Connell’s comments then I think we have a worry but for now I think we can just call it a misunderstanding tell Paul to go back to harassing cyclists, although O’Connell may need to look in the mirror before giving out about accuracy.

With it transpiring that the Aussies were mostly boozed up for the game last Saturday I am wondering if we should put a 4 drink minimum on players before they are allowed take the field this week in order to vastly improve performance. I am doubting Schmidt has the same forward thinking as I do so I have enlisted the help of the Monkstown J5s to help me. I will pass on the results.

So, to the team to face the All Blacks. How better to get over a loss to a poor Aussie (drinking) team than to play against New Zealand? It’s not as if they have been number 1 in the world for the past 4 years or anything. Oh, wait, that is exactly what we are up against. It is like we couldn’t finish a bowl of soup and suddenly have decided to have a go at a 12 pound steak instead.

A small part of me wants to put back out the same 15 to see if it was a blip or not but I don’t see that happening really. Please note that all players who played last week and who are selected come with a “Must improve from last week”. I don’t want to have to keep putting it in so just imagine it is there.

1. Cian Healy – Jack McGrath made a bloody good shout for selection against the Aussies. Would we have won if he was playing? God no, don’t be stupid. He still isn’t near Healy’s standard but he is gaining fast.

2. Sean Cronin – I don’t see what Best offers anymore that Cronin doesn’t. Unlucky to have missed out on a try due to a knock on at the base but on the upside he can now tell his grandkids that it was 90 yards out and he rounded 4 players. Good to see Strauss back to training.

3. Mike Ross – Couple of times against Oz I think he got pinged unfairly at scrum time. I would like to see him used more from the base of the ruck or short off 9 as he has a bit of power in the legs.

4. Paul O’Connell – I will sum up his last outing. Fumbled in a maul following a penalty to the corner and a pass you would sub an under 13 prop for throwing. Joe has made him captain so I don’t see him not playing but if it was going on form he would be on the bench or worse if Iain Henderson had a toe to stand on. Also I don’t think I could put up with the fallout.

5. Devin Toner – It is a straight up or down for me. Toner for lineouts beats McCarthy for scrums. That is pretty much it. I think we will get more fruit from the lineout. If I had more balls it would be both.

6. Peter O’Mahony – If Chris Henry was fit he would be in ahead of Peter with SOB moving to 6 and Henry at 7. I like O’Mahony but I would like O’Brien at 6 more. Got dumped on his head, I still reckon it was only a yellow but seem to be alone in that, and he got up to have a go. This Ireland team is devoid of that at the moment. We need a bit more edge and he supplies that the on occasion.

7. Sean O’Brien – Is getting the ball still and deep too much. Should be used more off 9 or hitting the line flat off ten. Still an excellent operator but signs of a fizzle are appearing.

8. Jamie Heaslip – Name me another number 8 who can come close? Works well and deserves his spot but we need to develop a reserve who isn’t a 6 or 7 moving in.

9. Conor Murray – I can see the logic behind Redden starting against the Aussies but it didn’t work. I don’t think it will work any better with Murray at 9 against New Zealand but he is the best of what is left in the squad. Would love to be proved wrong on this one but I think 9 is our weak spot at the moment.

10. Paddy Jackson – I am working under the assumption that miracles don’t happen and Jonny won’t be fit. Jackson edges it, just. Would like to see the second half going to Madigan as he can work some magic when a defence is tired, the jury is still out on whether or not the Blacks get tired but we may as well plan like they are human. When Jackson steps up and plays out of the pocket nearer the line he is a different player to the one who sits like a poor man’s David Humphries and misses touch from deep. He needs to do that this Sunday to unlock the boys outside him

11. Fergus McFadden – If he can somehow find some space against this opposition he can make ground. Did some notable things against Australia, couple of good carries, tackles etc. Wasn’t the worst by a long shot. His defence will really be tested.

12. Luke Marshall – Needs to not lead with his bloody head. Was one of the few men to make an impression against Australia. As against Samoa I think Schmidt will start the fastest beard in the East outside Jackson but I would like to see Marshall keep his spot regardless. I would like at some point to see Madigan run out at 12 and a switch to a “two 5 8th’s” style game, not the match to do it in but one to keep in the back of the mind. I say Marshall, Schmidt will go for Darcy.

13. Brian O’Driscoll – It could be his last chance to beat them shouldn’t be a factor, but for some reason it is. He is still the form 13 which makes it easier. Henshaw in reserve.

14. Tommy Bowe – Shouldn’t be too tired having done nothing last week. Really needs to step up and I think he can pop up with a performance to restore faith. Dave Kearney will probably feel hard done by following his debut brace and subsequent dropping and is deserving of a spot on the bench.

15. Rob Kearney/Ian Madigan – If Kearney turns out to be injured, which is likely then I go with Madgian at fullback purely due to him having a few more seconds of international experience than Robbie Henshaw or Dave Kearney.

1. Cian Healy

2. Sean Cronin

3. Mike Ross

4. Paul O’Connell

5. Devin Toner

6. Peter O’Mahony

7. Sean O’Brien

8. Jamie Heaslip

9. Conor Murray

10. Paddy Jackson

11. Fergus McFadden

12. Luke Marshall

13. Brian O’Driscoll

14. Tommy Bowe

15. Rob Kearney/Ian Madigan

16. Mike Sherry

17. Stephen Archer

18. Jack McGrath

19. Mike McCarthy

20. Kevin McLaughlin

21. Eoin Redden

22. Dave Kearney/Ian Madigan

23. Robbie Henshaw

Iain O’Connor (@iain_not_ian) is a Leinster fan who should have retired from playing bad standard rugby years ago. Part time stand up comedian and full time radio person he is the presenter and creator of Heave, a schools rugby show on Dublin South FM. He also likes rugby league and names Alisona Taumalolo as his hero.

Let The Schmidt Hit The Fan - Rd 3 (LEIN)

Time to hear from our Ireland selectors…this week our Leinster fan Iain O’Connor has a bash…

Click these links to find the most recent selections from Ulster, Connacht & Munster.

Just a reminder folks…the contributors’ task is to pick a matchday 23 as if the test were being played next weekend, so they must take current injuries into account

Ok. The H Cup has started, Leinster and Munster have played each other and the first batch of internationals are looming so as Manius Manilius said to his Legions before the battle of Carthage, “It is time to start taking this shit seriously.”

It is important, I think, to start by stating my ambitions for this November and for the 6 Nations. First off I don’t think winning is the main aim. Don’t get me wrong, winning would be a nice aside if it were to happen but I would be a far happier man if we lost a few games and built a team for the next ten years than if we put out dad’s army and struggled over the line with no look to the future. I can imagine a few of you shouting “But BOD never beat the All Blacks!” at your computer screens and to you I say two things. Number 1, the internet is not that interactive and I can’t hear you and 2 in the immortal words of Spock from Star Trek “The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few”. We need to look to the future, if we can help BOD’s legacy on the way all well and good, but first things first, let’s start to build.

We are in a rare situation where we have a lot of 30 plus players with a ton of experience and a good number of younger players who have, for the most part, a smattering of caps between them. It is a situation that, I think, we have been put in by our former head coach’s hatred of all things young. I can just see the UCC sports department being full of geriatric students for the coming years but I will digress and move on.

There have been a couple of knocks and bumps and stuff so I will talk about them as I get to them but without further messing let’s get it on

1. Cian Healy – Can you really argue with the Church? To my eyes still looks a little tired but still by far our best option.

2. Sean Cronin – I have had him at hooker since my first team and he has only gotten better while others have fallen away. The long term injury to Strauss means he will get more game time for Leinster. Still streets ahead of Sherry and Varley in terms of all round play. My only choice at 2.

3. Stephen Archer - Basically Mike Ross needs to be fit. Archer is in because I think he will be there eventually but he is not ready. I am usually a big believer in “if you are good enough, you are old enough” and that is true everywhere but the front row. Court is around, but what will we really gain from that. Hagan is another option. But basically, Mike Ross needs to be fit.

4. Paul O’Connell – Still in the team in spite of myself. Dan Tuohy is putting in a great shift lately for Ulster and Big Dev Toner has also impressed and either would be worthy to get a nod from the bench when Paul starts to lag. For now though he is a leader and reliable.

5. Donnacha Ryan – In my mind should come under pressure for his spot. He won’t but he should.

6. Sean O’Brien – Why? Just ask Dan Biggar

7. Peter O’Mahony – This one is a toss-up between Chris Henry and Peter O’Mahony with Donnacha Ryan in reserve and Fez on injury reserve, as they say in the States. O’Mahony gets the nod. Just.

8. Jamie Heaslip – Haters gonna hate but Jamie is still our best 8 in a few decades. Dynamic and does the graft as well as the flash. No other 8 comes near to challenging which may cause other issues but for now he is it. For me he is also captain.

9. Conor Murray – Pinnar started for Ulster in the H Cup against Montpellier and if it wasn’t for that reason I can’t start Marshall without opening myself up for ridicule. I prefer Marshall over Murray and for reasons why I will point to the 78^th minute of the Munster loss to Edinburgh where Munster are in control and Murray takes it upon himself to box kick. Marshall is a different/better option at 9 but until he is settled as a starter in the big games for Ulster I can’t get away with having him in the Ireland team.

10. Jonny Sexton – Still streets ahead of Jackson and Maddigan even if it has not been too smooth at Racing.

11. Tommy Bowe – Tommy is back, so Tommy is in.

12. Luke Marshall – If he can keep his head from getting rattled then he is in at 12. Darcy is playing well again for Leinster and could be a nice mentor but I would like to see youth get a shot in the middle.

13. Darren Cave – Right, if BOD is fit then BOD starts. I see Cave as the man to take over at 13 completing an all Ulster centre partnership.

14. Fergus McFadden – Andrew Trimble has made a late surge for consideration. Zebo is injured but would be in behind both Fergie and Bowe. (Insert 3-some joke here)

15. Rob Kearney - Still the master of the high ball. I would like to see Henshaw get a run out at some point.

1. Cian Healy

2. Sean Cronin

3. Stephen Archer

4. Paul O’Connell

5. Donnacha Ryan

6. Sean O’Brien

7. Peter O’Mahony

8. Jamie Heaslip

9. Conor Murray

10. Jonny Sexton

11. Tommy Bowe

12. Luke Marshall

13. Darren Cave

14. Fergus McFadden

15. Rob Kearney

16. Damian Varley

17. Dave Kilcoyne

18. Tom Court

19. Devin Toner

20. Chris Henry

21. Luke Marshalll

22. Paddy Jackson

23. Robbie Henshaw

Iain O’Connor (@iain_not_ian) is a Leinster fan who should have retired from playing bad standard rugby years ago. Part time stand up comedian and full time radio person he is the presenter and creator of Heave, a schools rugby show on Dublin South FM. He also likes rugby league and names Alisona Taumalolo as his hero.

Let The Schmidt Hit The Fan - Rd 2 (LEIN)

As the new Ireland coaching staff gets to know their squad, here’s the latest thoughts from our Leinster-leaning selector…

Click these links to find the most recent selections from Connacht, Munster & Ulster.

Right so here we go for round 2. It is September and each team is now acting accordingly and has forgotten how to play rugby, possibly with the exception of Ulster.

To be honest, if there was a big test tomorrow I would probably just pick my last month’s team with a few tiny exceptions, so instead what I have done is picked a team I would like to see get a run out together for one of the weaker November internationals. So hey this is what I would be lashing out against the mighty Samoa if that was this weekend.

I have gone for a mix of inexperience and form, although finding an Irish player on form in September is like trying to find a sober Dublin footballer in the next 3 weeks.

I have also held back from converting Michael Darragh McCauley and including him in the back row as that may annoy the traditionalists.

Next month it is down to business. Promise!

1. Cian Healy – Church is still unchallenged

2. Sean Cronin – In my opinion our long term future at hooker

3. Mike Ross – Ross is still our best option and completes an all Leinster front row

4. Iain Henderson – Man of the Match for Ulster against Con. Personally I had written him off and I am willing to hold my hands up. Deserves a shot

5. Donnacha Ryan – Has done enough not to get dropped

6. Sean O’Brien – Still to make a comeback since the Lions but at 50% still our best back row

7. Peter O’Mahony – For me he is still keeping Ferris’ spot warm and doing a mighty fine job of it too.

8. Jamie Heaslip – For me still captain and still unchallenged

9. Paul Marshall – Had a good half for Ulster in their win last week. Is definitely our back up 9 but I think can challenge Murray. Quicker distribution and can surprise a defence. Has the x factor. You now have permission to slap me for using the term “x factor”.

10. Paddy Jackson – I know it is early in the season but has been impressive. 13 or 18 points on the weekend was enough for me to give him a bash. Worth a start against someone weaker but not gonna challenge Jonny for a while yet. Needs to not do any more youtube videos mind you, Nizlopi has run its course.

11. Simon Zebo – As I said earlier this is for a game against a weaker team. I would put Zebo in purely to give him a chance to prove form. Like Jackson he could do with making less videos for the internet. Both the injunction kind and the others.

12. Luke Marshall – Still my 12. Needs international game time.

13. Darren Cave – Needs game time if he is going to replace BOD next season. There is all sorts of talk about BOD playing every game to get records and what not but that needs to take a back seat to blooding his replacement.

14. Fergus McFadden – Would be worth a shot on the wing with 2 inexperienced centres. Can fill in in the middle if times get tough and is a pretty established winger.

15. Robbie Henshaw - Get this guy blooded as quickly as possible. Can fill in anywhere around the backline but I like him at 15.

1. Cian Healy

2. Sean Cronin

3. Mike Ross

4. Iain Henderson

5. Donnacha Ryan

6. Sean O’Brien

7. Peter O’Mahony

8. Jamie Heaslip

9. Paul Marshall

10. Paddy Jackson

11. Simon Zebo

12. Luke Marshall

13. Darren Cave

14. Fergus McFadden

15. Robbie Henshaw

16. Dave Kilcoyne

17. Richardt Strauss

18. Jamie Hagan

19. Devin Toner

20. Chris Henry

21. Conor Murray

22. Jonny Sexton

23. Rob Kearney

Iain O’Connor (@iain_not_ian) is a Leinster fan who should have retired from playing bad standard rugby years ago. Part time stand up comedian and full time radio person he is the presenter and creator of Heave, a schools rugby show on Dublin South FM. He also likes rugby league and names Alisona Taumalolo as his hero.

Let The Schmidt Hit The Fan - Rd 1 (LEIN)

Time to introduce our next provincial blogger who will select their best Irish team throughout the season…this week, Leinster!

Click here for more on the feature, but basically the idea is to select an Ireland matchday 23 for a test to be played the following Saturday.

If you missed last week's opening selection from Connacht, click here.

Pick an Ireland team in August? Madness. But hey as girls in Eddie Rockets say to international duos “I will give it a go, what’s the worst that could happen?”

If you look back on last season, I wouldn’t recommend it so I will do it for you, it is clear that change is needed. Is getting rid of Declan “Van Wilder” Kidney enough? Some say yes. I say no.

Last season was a catastrophe. Worst season we have seen since the Celtic Tiger made us good at the rugger but it is unfair to blame it all on Kidney. The vast majority of it was his doing or a knock on effect of years of mismanagement but some blame still has to fall at the feet of the players.

If we were a bigger nation I would gleefully have 14 or 15 brand new names below, primed and ready to start handing out whoopins in the 6 Nations. But we aren’t. So I don’t. Fact remains that ever since we drifted away from the supercontinent Pangea we were doomed for the life of a minnow, who can’t afford to make massive, sweeping wholesale changes. Either way I have wielded the axe slightly. A light pruning if you will.

1. Cian Healy – No-brainer (the choice not the player). Our only stand out player last season in the 6 Nations, could have been the Lion of the tour if injury hadn’t gotten in the way. Always gives 100% although the red mist does descend the odd time. Deserving of the shirt.
2. Sean Cronin – The worst thing that happened to Rory Best last season was Dylan Hartley getting sent off for being quite rude. If he hadn’t gone on the Lions tour he could have taken the trip to the Americas as time to regain form away from the spotlight, instead he had some royal cock ups stage centre. It pains me to say it as he has been a titan for Ireland and off the field he seems like one of the nicest men you will ever come across but I think his international career could be done/should be done. Some blame it on temporary form but last season had been coming for a while.
   Cronin deserves his run. Although not nailing down the Leinster spot full time I think that is in the post and I think he is our long term hooker. I don’t think Strauss is a healthy option long run so would keep him out of the starting team to let others develop.
   Before the Munster people start Mike Sherry can be there too. Filling water bottles or whatever.
3. Mike Ross - The biggest tragedy in modern rugby is that Mike Ross didn’t get a Lions call and Tom Court did. I know his was opportunistic and what not, but a tragedy none the less. Enough to bring a tear to a glass eye. We all know Ross is the only real choice and we all know that means we are in trouble in a few seasons when he retires. As for prop subs, both sides, I still don’t understand what is going on with Michael Bent (is he a player or part of the Gathering?). Hagen looks like he is coming along nicely as does Kilcoyne. I would give them halves this season. Court as back up to the backups backup.
4. Paul O’Connell – Can you drop him? No. At this stage I think it is fair that Paulie goes when Paulie wants. No more of that kicking people in the head mind you.
5. Donnacha Ryan – He is a workhorse and every team needs one. With the way modern scrums have gone, more crouch, cuddle, lean that crouch touch engage, we could be better off with top quality line out workers or a more mobile pack but for now Ryan has been solid.
   As for subs in the 2nd row, I think the revelation of the summer tour was big Devin Toner. He was immense at set piece and somehow didn’t seem as awkward as usual. Would like to see him used more and tested in the 6 Nations later this year. Mike McCarthy is an ever present “stable replacement”, aka not really going to set the world on fire but can cover two spots, and Dan Tuohy can do some damage too.
6. Sean O’Brien – This could be the season when he goes from good to god. Could be. Tommy O’Donnell is doing well and deserves a bench place behind him but I don’t see him putting pressure on for his spot.
7. Peter O’Mahony – The gritty end of the team (aka can throw a sly dig). Is always competent and has the most worried game face of any Irish international. Can get in and do the angry stuff but falls short of being a great as I don’t think he will ever be known for his pace or hands. Everybody needs some angry though. If Fez ever gets fit, and I have spent many a night praying he does, than he is right back in there. I won’t hold my breath on that though so I would have Chris Henry as a deserved back up.
8. Jamie Heaslip – I have first-hand knowledge of Heaslip, he once ran over me in a Junior Plate final. Since then he has developed into one of the best 8s out there and I have developed a love for cheesecake. On a serious note, a lot of people argue over his position in the squad, visible or invisible work and all that, but he is by far the best 8 in the land and I would keep him on as captain. Had a good tour with the Lions but was visibly tired by the end of it. Was good to see O’Mahony get a couple of games at 8 in the States as a just in case.
9. Conor Murray – Murray is our number one number 9. Just. I think he had a solid Lions tour, nothing more. I am well aware I am probably the only man in the room to think this but I just feel he was the least bad of the Lions scrummys. He has matured vastly over the past few years but I still think he decision making takes about as long as the Countdown Conundrum. If he improves that, he nails down a spot. If he doesn’t, Paul Marshall come on down. The Ulsterman is young, quick, exciting and has vast potential. Will he fulfil it? Probably not but how about we dream a little? Would like to see him getting more game time as he offers a different style to Murray.
   As for the Leinster duo? Boss and Reddan are now at 33 each, practically, and I think it is time we moved on. Great to have for a crisis but no real longevity.
10. Jonny Sexton – There is a reason Racing pay him the GDP of a small African nation. At Leinster Madigan could really take off this year and if he does could press Jonny all the way. Paddy Jackson was kind of the Patsy for last year’s mess so I would like to see him get a run to show what he is about.
11. Simon Zebo – If Tommy Bowe was fit he would be dropping to the bench with Gilroy moving to the left. Needs to pull up his socks. Literally. It’s not the Nemo Rangers junior B’s he is playing for. Good all round and worth a shot but I still think there are hungrier lads around him pushing for his jumper. Would like to see perma crocks Luke and Felix Jones get back to fitness and challenge. As for Trimble I think he needs to prove form in the Rabo but could feature at some point.
12. Luke Marshall – Again didn’t get a fair crack last year when he stepped into a crumbling system but in my opinion is well worth a crack. Showed he can play ball on the big stage but could probably do with investing in some head gear. Fergus McFadden is always an option and has the benefit of being a relief kicker if one is needed. As for the Darce? The day has come to go out to stud I think. Again, could be good if there is an injury crisis but previous experience would suggest that he will probably be injured at the time.
13. Brian O’Driscoll – This is the one more year. For the good of the team next year, he really needs to only play halves to blood someone else. Darren Cave being that someone. Playing 13 when God hangs up his boots is going to be a tougher job than sorting out the whole middle east thing so let’s at least get the lad a couple of caps before throwing him to the lions. Could also see McFadden move out to 13 but think Cave may be a more exciting prospect to have in a bit more space.
14. Craig Gilroy – A winger who likes a thump, just ask Leigh Halfpenny. I get the feeling that we have yet to see the best from him but I also think that for the way he plays injuries may become a problem. Hope I am wrong. I explained my subs at 11.
15. Rob Kearney – After his summer trip to Australia he is nothing if not rested. Good news for him as I think a lot of Lions are going to look pretty tired in a few months. The bad news is while he was watching Halfpenny put on a master class, Robbie Henshaw was in good form in America. At Connaught he has managed to look good in a backline run by Dan Parks which is an achievement in itself. He can’t claim a ball as well as Kearney but in time who knows, worth a bench spot.

So to summarize, here is Iain’s matchday 23 :

1. Cian Healy
   
2. Sean Cronin
   
3. Mike Ross
   
4. Paul O’Connell
   
5. Donnacha Ryan
   
6. Sean O’Brien
   
7. Peter O’Mahony
   
8. Jamie Heaslip
   
9. Conor Murray
   
10. Jonny Sexton
    
11. Simon Zebo
    
12. Luke Marshall
    
13. Brian O’Driscoll
    
14. Craig Gilroy
    
15. Rob Kearney
    
16. Dave Kilcoyne
    
17. Richardt Strauss
    
18. Jamie Hagan
    
19. Devin Toner
    
20. Chris Henry
    
21. Ian Maddigan
    
22. Fergus McFadden
    
23. Robbie Henshaw

Iain O’Connor (@iain_not_ian) is a Leinster fan who should have retired from playing bad standard rugby years ago. Part time stand up comedian and full time radio person he is the presenter and creator of Heave, a schools rugby show on Dublin South FM. He also likes rugby league and names Alisona Taumalolo as his hero.

Tune in next week when we'll meet our blogger from Munster.