“The senior players have been blown away by his attitude” – Andy Farrell backs Craig Casey to make his mark

LIMERICK scrumhalf Craig Casey is in line to make his international debut this Sunday in Ireland’s Six Nations clash with France.

Casey enjoyed a breakout season for Munster this campaign. The 21 year-old’s energy, attitude and speed of pass has made him an outstanding option for his province and he has now swiftly catapulted onto the international stage.

Casey has played 21 times for Munster since 2019 and has scored two tries. Standing at 5’5, the Shannon clubman is doubly determined to maximize his physique and skillset to help him reach his full potential on the biggest stage. Casey’s unbelievable work-ethic is something that has caught many people’s attention in the game.

Last month Munster coach Graham Rowntree discussed how pleased he was to see Casey named in the Ireland squad. The British and Irish Lions forwards coach referred to the youngster as one of the most hard-working players he has worked with. “I am not surprised he has been called up,” Rowntree said. “It is a pleasure to work with the guy day in and day out. His diligence, he is last off the field, the effort he puts into his game, he has got the most out of his physique and I have not worked with many more diligent players than Craig. He is a joy to work with. He will be there for a long time I can see.”

Now Andy Farrell is seemingly equally impressed. Farrell made a brave call to select the Munster man ahead of the likes of John Cooney and Luke McGrath in his initial 36-man squad and having now seen Casey up close in training he has backed him to succeed against the mighty French on Sunday.

It will be a tough game for Ireland on Sunday afternoon but no matter the result as long as there is talent like Craig Casey around there is always going to be hope for the future.