Ireland expected to call CJ Stander and Garry Ringrose for Six Nations
Wednesday 20 January 2016 16:33, UK
CJ Stander, Stuart McCloskey and Garry Ringrose are expected to be named in Ireland's Six Nations squad on Wednesday.
The uncapped trio have been in excellent form for their provinces this season and look set to be rewarded by head coach Joe Schmidt as Ireland attempt to win a third successive championship.
South Africa-born No 8 Stander, who captained the Springboks at U20 level, qualified for Ireland on residency grounds last October.
His consistency has been one of the positives in a difficult season for Munster, the 25-year-old picking up another man of the match in last weekend's Champions Cup win over Stade Francais.
Ulster powerhouse McCloskey and fellow centre Ringrose could help Ireland offset the potential short-term loss of Robbie Henshaw, who remains sidelined with a hand injury.
Yes he's got the size, but he's also got the skills to back that up.
McCloskey's centre partner Luke Marshall, who is also expected to feature in Ireland's wide squad, says his team-mate has "the full package" to cause a stir in the Six Nations.
"Stuart's far bigger than any other centre at Ulster," said Marshall. "And in Ireland, let alone Ulster, that's freakish, we just don't make centres that big.
"Yes he's got the size, but he's also got the skills to back that up. He's got good hands, he's quick and can kick too. I'd say he's got the full package."
Cornerstone props Mike Ross and Cian Healy should be selected despite the Leinster front-rowers facing a race against time to be fit for the opening fixture against Wales on February 7.
Talismanic captain Paul O'Connell's post-World Cup Test retirement leaves an obvious chasm in both Ireland's second row and their leadership ranks.
Schmidt must select a captain for a new cycle, with Rory Best expected to be given the nod ahead of Jamie Heaslip and Sean O'Brien.
"He's the type of guy that everyone in the squad can really identify with, he doesn't hold himself higher or above anyone else, he's just one of the guys," said Marshall.
"He's as proud as anyone to play for his province. All those things make him the great captain he is.
"He's hard-working, honest and I think certainly Ireland, if they make him captain, it would be a great selection and a selection I'd endorse definitely."
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