Some players just don’t get the recognition they deserve.
The Caelan Doris’, Tadhg Beirnes, and Josh van der Fliers of this world consistently grab the headlines – and rightly so.
But there is a plethora of quality operators playing serious minutes in the URC, Premiership, and Champions Cup, who need to be heralded.
And that is our aim with this Underrated XV, made up of some of the best Irish players who have not played international ball over the last year.
Underrated Ireland rugby XV.
1. James Cronin (Leicester)
The former Munster and three-time capped Ireland loose head has plugged away diligently for Leicester over the past year.
At 34 he still has gas left in the tank, with the Tigers making a strong start to this season’s Premiership.
2. Dave Heffernan (Connacht)
Was unlucky not to add to his Ireland caps this autumn after being named in the main squad.
Nonetheless, he has playing some of the best rugby of his career in 2024.
3. Stephen Archer (Munster)
Certainly not underrated down south, the 36-year-old became Munster’s most-capped player of all time last year and continues to defy logic with his ability to pull out his best performances when needed most.
4. Darragh Murray (Connacht)
Has become a key player for his club this year and was a standout for Emerging Ireland during their tour to South Africa in October.
Has the attributes to get senior international honours.
5. Ross Molony (Leinster/Bath)
One of the most dependable players Leinster have ever had. A leader within the squad who was always available.
His move to Bath has been a roaring success so far, with his new club sitting atop the Premiership.
6. Tom Ahern (Munster)
Injuries have played a part, but it is criminal that Tom Ahern has yet to be capped by Ireland.
One of the best players in Europe last season, and will hopefully make the Six Nations squad.
7. Dave McCann (Ulster)
A shining light in a struggling Ulster team, the 24-year-old is an invaluable asset to Ulster with his ability to play across the back row.
Is part of a cohort of young Irish back rowers – including John Hodnett, Scott Penny, and Alex Kendellen – who are still waiting patiently for an Ireland debut.
8. Gavin Coombes (Munster)
Still one of the most consistently excellent players in the country, and his ability to step into lock last season showed again his natural talent as an all-round rugby player.
While not popular with Andy Farrell, with Simon Easterby taking over at Ireland for an interim period, perhaps he can sneak into his Six Nations squad?
9. John Cooney (Ulster)
Statistically one of the best goal-kickers in the world, and still vital to Ulster despite not getting deserved recognition at international level.
Has been linked with a move to France and nobody could begrudge him if he decides to leave.
10. Jack Carty (Connacht)
Somewhat of a forgotten man within Irish rugby, but still capable of classy performances on the pitch.
11. Andrew Smith (Connacht)
One of the most successful inter-provincial transfers in recent years, the former Leinster winger is suited perfectly to Connacht’s style of play.
Had a number of highlight-reel moments last season.
12. Liam Turner (Leinster)
A classy, footballing inside centre, who stays fit and can fill in on the wing.
Had a game-changing cameo off the bench in Leinster’s late win over Connacht last December.
13. David Hawkshaw (Connacht)
A similar mould of player to Turner, whom he played alongside for the Ireland U20s in 2019.
Another nifty signing from the Westerners.
14. Rob Russell (Leinster)
A relatively late bloomer, but a reliable operator and finisher when the front-liners are unavailable.
15. Shane Daly (Munster)
Unlucky not to have more than two Ireland caps, given his quality and ability to play across the back line.
Scored one of the great European tries against Stade Francais earlier this month.
