WORTH A LUKE

McGrath backed for Ireland comeback

- BY DEREK FOLEY

LEO CULLEN has challenged Andy Farrell and Simon Easterby to think again about Luke McGrath and a potential spot in the Ireland squad.

McGrath hasn't made an Ireland squad since being one of just two specialist scrumhalves taken to RWC2019 in Japan.

But, says the Leinster coach, their very own squad contains proof that if you are good enough, you are young enough and that their very own Rabah Slimani is proof.

McGrath was 32 last February, Slimani will be 36 next month; McGrath was last capped in October 2019, Slimani was last capped in October 2019; Slimani was recalled to the France squad in January 2025...

What's more Cullen will be investing heavily in McGrath again this season, indicating he will skipper the Blues for the opening two URC games of the season, away on mini-tour to South Africa, against Stormers and Bulls.