For the first time since 2009, all four Irish provinces started their domestic campaign with defeat. With Connacht and Ulster both losing at home on Friday night, Gordon D’Arcy and John O’Sullivan reflect on the teams they selected as their ones to watch heading into the season.
Is it time to row back on preseason positivity or will reinforcements of senior players in the weeks to come right the respective ships?
On Saturday, Leinster lost away to the Lions despite promising performances from a number of young players. Gordon picks out who impressed him from a counter-attacking sense as we wait to see how Leinster will shift their style in a bid to be more competitive against the bigger European sides.
We also discuss Munster’s loss at home to Glasgow despite the likes of Ben O’Donovan and Kieran Brookes putting in positive displays.
The Counter Ruck: the rugby newsletter from The Irish Times
World Rugby is wasting its time if it thinks the US is an untapped goldmine
Gerry Thornley: World Rugby’s aim of playing a Six Nations match in the USA looks a long shot
‘How to beat the bullies’: What will rugby look like heading into the World Cup next year?
The panel also pays tribute to Béibhinn Parsons after she became Ireland’s record try-scorer in Sunday’s win over Japan.
Produced by John Casey.
