With Joe Schmidt having announced his 31 man Irish World Cup squad, Ulster Rugby can be proud to be sending a 7 man contingent in the form of 3 forwards and 4 backs. The Province has come a long way in recent times but their consistent performances over the last few seasons has given them a squad with Ireland candidates throughout. As well as the successful 7, Ulster also have the likes of Andrew Trimble, Dan Tuohy, Robbie Diack and Craig Gilroy in their ranks to name just a few who could have been in contention for the World Cup squad. The successful candidates each have something different to offer in Ireland’s bid for further glory.
Rory Best – 84 caps
One of Joe Schmidt’s easier decisions and literally the number 1 name on his team sheet, hooker Rory Best provides experience and leadership having previously captained Ireland and he is currently captain of Ulster. Best provides a cool head on the pitch and has an excellent work ethic which Ireland will need right across the pitch. This is the Ulsterman’s third World Cup having been selected in the squad for 2007 and then going into 2011 as Ireland’s first choice hooker. Having played a key role in helping Ireland complete back to back 6 Nations triumphs the 33-year-old will be hoping for more success in England this summer.
Tommy Bowe – 64 caps
The toughest decisions for Ireland’s South African coach came on the wings. Although some felt Bowe’s position may have been under threat it would have been unthinkable to leave the 6 ft 3 in winger behind. Tommy Bowe has 28 international ties with 1 coming at the last World Cup and considering he is one of the most clinical finishers in world rugby he will be looking to improve on that tally by helping Ireland go deep into the tournament. At 31 years old this is likely to be Bowe’s last World Cup so he will have to use all his experience and physicality to ensure he gets in position to finish any chances that come his way.
Iain Henderson – 18 caps
The Six Nations campaign earlier this year was the breakthrough tournament for Ulster second row Iain Henderson. He was visible in attack with his breaking runs and also in defence with his tough tackling in the centre of the pitch he is rarely out of the action when on the pitch. At just 23 years old Henderson will be hoping to get the nod ahead of Donnacha Ryan and Devon Toner in the race to partner the Captain Paul O’Connell in the second row but whatever the case the Ulsterman is sure to have a long and successful Ireland career.
Chris Henry – 15 caps
Ulster fans will be delighted for Chris Henry to have been given a spot in the World Cup squad following his traumatic last 12 months. Having suffered a mini strike in late 2014 he only returned to rugby in May. A typically busy flanker, he comes into his own at the break down which could prove vital at the World Cup. Henry will be unlikely to take O’Brien or O’Mahoney’s starting berth but coming on in a game Chris Henry has the ability to slow the game down if Ireland are winning or be instrumental in winning the ball back if Ireland are trailing. A genuine all-rounder for Schmidt to have at his disposal.
Paddy Jackson – 11 caps
Ulster Rugby fan’s favourite Paddy Jackson already has over 80 appearances for Ulster and over 500 points at just 23 years old. Reliable in front of the posts and forever improving with his game control and distribution. This World Cup may be a character building process for Jackson finding himself behind Sexton and Madigan when it comes to the fly-half position however if required and with only two recognised No. 9’s in the squad Paddy Jackson is a safe pair of hands and will take any chance he is given.
Darren Cave – 9 caps
Perhaps the biggest surprise to make the final 31 is Darren Cave. Many pundits had picked him as a candidate to miss out due to the competition that exists for centre roles. With over 150 appearances for Ulster, the strong centre knows the mechanics of both 12 and 13 which may have helped his cause with Schmidt looking for versatility from his players. Darren Cave’s ball carrying skills and his ability to break the gain line will make him a key member of the squad as an impact replacement.
Jared Payne – 7 caps
The Six Nations earlier this year was an impressive campaign for Ireland but can only provide an indication how the World Cup will go with the southern hemisphere teams bringing their own style. During the Six Nations the new centre pairing of Robbie Henshaw and Jared Payne helped Joe Schmidt solve the “life after BOD” conundrum. Jared Payne is a powerful New Zealand born centre who is good in attack and defence with his impressive Ulster performances getting him the international recognition he deserves.
