Dan Patrick Sheehan, born on September 17, 1998, is an Irish professional rugby union player who plays as a hooker for the Leinster club in the United Rugby Championship and represents the Ireland national team.
Sheehan signed his first professional contract with Leinster in June 2020, marking the beginning of his club career.He made his debut for Leinster in October 2020 in Round 3 of the 2020-21 Pro14 against Zebre, impressively scoring two tries in the match.[4] In June 2022, Sheehan was honored as Leinster's Men's Young Player of the Year for the 2021-22 season, recognizing his outstanding performances.[5] He was also named in the URC Elite XV of the year for the 2022-23 season, further highlighting his impact in the competition.
On the international stage, Sheehan made his senior debut for the Ireland national team on November 6, 2021, in a test match against Japan at the Aviva Stadium. In the 2022 Six Nations Championship, Sheehan made significant contributions as a substitute in Ireland's victory against Wales and played a majority of the match against France after Rónan Kelleher suffered an injury in the 26th minute. Sheehan earned his first start for Ireland in the February 2022 Six Nations match against Italy. In the final match of the tournament, he scored a try and was named the player of the match in Ireland's 26-5 win over Scotland, securing their 12th triple crown. This victory also led to Ireland being crowned Six Nations champions.
Sheehan's impressive performances earned him a nomination for the 2022 World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year award, recognizing his rapid development and impact on the international stage.On March 18, 2023, Sheehan delivered another standout performance, scoring two tries and receiving the player of the match award in Ireland's victory over England. This win sealed the 2023 Six Nations Championship and granted Ireland their fourth-ever Grand Slam title.
Following their Grand Slam triumph, the Ireland national team achieved the number one ranking in the world and is now considered by many as Ireland's greatest rugby team of all time.[13] Sheehan's contributions have been instrumental in their success, further establishing him as a rising star in Irish rugby.
Ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023, Sheehan has been named in the squad for Ireland.
KG(30/06/2023)
Career
 |
Leinster Rugby Hooker |
2019 - present |
 |
Ireland A Hooker |
2022 - present |
 |
Ireland U20's Hooker |
2018 - 2019 |
 |
Ireland Hooker |
2021 - 2024 |
