Growing the depth of the Ireland squad has been central to Joe Schmidt’s ambitions since he took over as head coach in 2013.
Now, five years on, Ireland are blessed with one of the most star-studded squads in world rugby.
Beyond the battle at 9 and 10 and the ferocity up front, it could be argued that Ireland’s winning and losing of games hinges on their options at the back-row and their ball-carrying abilities.
Schmidt’s current back-row hums with godliness, and aside from being a nuisance for the opposition at the breakdown, the Men in Green make it impossible for teams to generate quick ball.
With star men Jamie Heaslip, Sean O’Brien, Rhys Ruddock and now Josh van der Flier sidelined – the latter’s ligament damage injury last weekend curtailing his season – Schmidt still has options in abundance to select from.
Here, we take a look at six stars who have the potential to shine in most international teams:
Shows up all over the pitch and is an outstanding line-out option. With 43 caps to his name, is the likely successor to the captaincy when Rory Best retires.
CJ STANDER
AGE: 27
CLUB: Munster
CAPS: 19
The Munster star carries the ball with ferocity and will be one of Ireland’s key talisman in the build up to next summer’s World Cup.
He plays his heart out at all times and is a menacing threat for the opposition.
Immense with ball-in-hand – apart from a mixed showing in last week’s win over France – the South African-born back-rower always rises to the occasion.
His decision to reject a staggering €800,000 contract to join Montpellier and remain in Ireland until 2020 shows his desire to shine on the international stage.
DAN LEAVY
AGE: 23
CLUB: Leinster
CAPS: 5
One of the most exciting names in Joe Schmidt’s squad, Leavy has been a totemic presence since his elevation to the Leinster starting 15 last season.
Won his first Irish cap against Canada in the 2016 November series, and has looked a class act since.
The Dublin-born player is an option at 6 and 7, which makes his presence even more useful.
At 23, Leavy has buckets of potential, and looks set for a starting berth against Italy in Van der Flier’s absence.
JORDI MURPHY
AGE: 26
CLUB: Leinster
CAPS: 18
The Ulster-bound player has been one of Schmidt’s trusted lieutenants since making his debut against Engalnd in 2015.
One of the best in the business at the breakdown, the 26-year-old has pace to burn, solid tackling ability and reads the game to perfection.
Although he failed to make the 23 against France, the Dublin man should be selected in matchday squads before the end of the campaign.
If Schmidt has one eye on the World Cup then he needs to give the versatile back-rower – who can cover 6, 7 and 8 – chances to continue developing his skills on the international stage.
JACK CONAN
AGE: 25
CLUB: Leinster
CAPS: 5
One of the stand-out stars of the year, Conan has been a colossus for Ireland since making his debut in August 2015.
Injuries may have curtailed his development, but the 25-year-old’s towering presence and work-rate at the breakdown makes him a strong option if Schmidt needs power and pace up front.
Although he may not be getting a look in for matchday squads at present, expect the Leinster man to be pushing for a starting berth for next summer’s World Cup.
JOSH MURPHY
AGE: 22
CLUB: Leinster
CAPS: Uncapped
The 22-year-old may be uncapped but is starting to show signs of his class the longer he spends in the professional game.
Although he is a lot further down the pecking order compared to other names, Murphy has the chance to learn from some of the best in the business over the next few seasons at Leinster.
His voracious work rate makes him a key inclusion to any squad.
