“I might get a look in”-Simon Zebo still harbouring World Cup ambitions

For Simon Zebo, the upcoming Six Nations will provide some mixed emotions.

Not since his announcement to leave Munster in late 2017 has the prolific back been included in an Ireland squad.

This comes despite his scoring record which has continued with new club Racing Metro where he has shone at full back and on the wing scoring twelve tries already this season.

However, Joe Schmidt’s policy to include Irish based players only has seen Zebo exiled, something which he is still coming to terms with as he returns to Ireland with the Top 14 on a break.

“Yeah, I’ve been there before, I know what it’s like through injury and whatnot, selection…It’s not as strange as I would have had to deal with the first time. It’s good, it’s good to be back. It’s nice to have some time off. Not used to having too much time off at this time of the year. So, to have a couple of weeks to relax and recover is good.”

Much was made of Zebo’s move to Racing, with many of the Munster faithful disappointed in his departure.

However, after explaining his reasoning its hard to begrudge the human highlight reel who is clearly loving his rugby in Paris at this moment in time.

“Yeah, gone very well. Really enjoying my time on and off the pitch. It’s a pretty cool city. Lots to do with my family and the rugby side of things, it’s been excellent.

I’ve really enjoyed my time playing with world-class players, 1-15. It’s been really good, challenging at times. Some frustrations with one or two losses. But all in all, the experience has been everything I thought it would be and more.”

Things in Munster were obviously great and playing for Ireland was great, but this is a new challenge and a different motivation. Not that I was falling out of love with the game, but it’s definitely another fresh start.”

However, Zebo still hasn’t lost hope of representing his country and with the World Cup on the horizon, the Racing man has his fingers crossed.

On merit, Zebo would be a shoo-in to make the final squad to head to Japan but it’s hard to dispute Joe Schmidt’s reasoning that has brought so much success to the squad.

“My World Cup hopes wouldn’t be too high but hopefully, if I keep playing well and, touch wood there isn’t, but if there are a couple of injuries then I might get a look in.”

Yet, when asked had Schmidt been in touch Zebo was quick with his reply of, “No” accompanied by his customary laugh.