‘The two of them do the basics very, very well ... we’re in rude health when it comes to the hooking position’
Two twos equal formidable as Sheehan and Kelleher put Ireland in strong position‘A red rag to a bull’ - Peter O’Mahony continues Scotland rivalry
“For me, these two have changed the role of a hooker and it looks like they’re going to be back at it again. When the two of them were going head-to-head before the injuries started to get in the way, they were the most in-form one-two in the northern hemisphere,” says Byrne, while placing the French pair in that bracket now.
“Kelleher comes across as more of an abrasive player, and none of these things take away from the other. He still has the nose for the try but normally through the thick of it, not out on the wings. That’s just his style. “Rotating them from game to game is absolutely essential and with the competition between them, the better one of them plays in the first 50 or 60 minutes, you can be guaranteed the other one will come on like a wildfire wanting to usurp the other guy. That’s the key to it, getting the absolute best out of them.”
As for Ireland’s choice? “It depends what you’re looking for,” said Byrne. “Are you looking for a more physical game? Well, then it’s Kelleher. Are you looking for that final touch, that bit of spectacular play? Well, then it’s Sheehan if it’s going to be a looser game and it’s the exact same with the French and the South Africans.”
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Ciarán Sheehan: From All-Ireland Footballer to Junior Hurling Final CaptainCiarán Sheehan, a former All-Ireland senior football medal winner, is back at Croke Park at age 34 to captain Russell Rovers in the All-Ireland junior club hurling final. The multi-sport star, who also played Australian Rules Football for Carlton, reflects on his remarkable sporting journey and the joy of returning to hurling.
Read more »
Cork Footballer Sheehan to Lead Russell Rovers in All-Ireland Hurling FinalFormer All-Ireland winning footballer Ciaran Sheehan will captain Russell Rovers in the All-Ireland junior hurling final against St Lachtain's of Kilkenny.
Read more »
Ireland Names Squad for 2025 Six Nations with Boyle and Sheehan IncludedIreland has announced its 36-man squad for the 2025 Six Nations, featuring uncapped Leinster prop Jack Boyle and the return of first-choice hooker Dan Sheehan from injury.
Read more »
Ireland Six Nations Squad: Sheehan and Lowe Return; Biggest Calls at Backrow and ScrumhalfIreland's Six Nations squad has been announced, with some notable returns and fresh faces. Gerry Thornley analyzes the key selections, highlighting the natural progression of younger players and the competition for starting spots.
Read more »
Dan Sheehan eyes Ireland-England clash after injury returnThe latest sports news from The42.ie in 60 seconds
Read more »
Rugby Star Dan Sheehan Celebrates Ireland's Six Nations Victory with Partner Katherine EganIreland rugby player Dan Sheehan celebrates his team's win over England in the Six Nations opening with his longtime partner Katherine Egan. The couple, known for their love of travel and shared sporting backgrounds, were all smiles at the Aviva Stadium. Katherine Egan, a star university hockey player, and Dan Sheehan, a Leinster hooker, have been together for at least six years.
Read more »