Back rowers standout in Interpro derby
- 2307
Leinster may have come away with a 6-13 win over Munster, ending their 21 game unbeaten run at Thomond Park on Saturday, but one of the biggest winners was the future of the Irish back row.
Looking at the two back rows ahead of the clash, one could not help but think the likes of Caelan Doris, Will Connors, Josh Murphy, Jack O'Donoghue and Chris Cloete could all pull on the Green jersey in the future while Tommy O'Donnell could get another crack at the jersey.
And all six players stepped up in the encounter.
O'Donnell was busy on both sides of the ball while Chris Cloete, who is set to qualify for Ireland through residency, had an excellent game at the breakdown despite giving a few penalties away.
In the Blue jerseys, Josh Murphy racked up 13 tackles and 10 carries in a hour before he was given a breather. Will Connors, on the other hand, topped the tackle count with 23 tackles without missing a single tackle.
Man of the match Caelan Doris continued his fine form making 12 tackles and 12 carries while his opposite number had another big game for Munster making 13 carries, 18 tackles (without missing one), won a turnover and was devasting when Leinster tried to form their maul.
O'Donoghue wasn't included in Andy Farrell's extended squad for a training day but his continued form with Munster could force his hand.
All of this bodes well for Ireland with the likes of Josh van der Flier, CJ Stander, Dan Leavy, Rhys Ruddock and Tadgh Beirne all missing this weekend's action.
