From Keith Wood to Brian O’Driscoll to Paul O’Connell, Ireland has a habit of turning out great captains.
Rory Best proved today that he is no exception, and not just because he led Ireland to an impressive win over England — shutting down any hopes they had of a Grand Slam.
In one brilliant example of leadership, Best let referee Jerome Garces all about the cynical targeting of Johnny Sexton by the English — including one particularly nasty late tackle by Itoje on Ireland’s number 10 that left Sexton feeling his shoulder for a few moments afterwards.
When the ref told Best “We are in charge,” Best retorted “I know, but I also have a responsibility to my team.” 60 seconds later, Sexton put Ireland 13-6 ahead.
Love this piece of captaincy from Rory Best. #IREvENG pic.twitter.com/FsybGRvI7W
— Paul Moore (@ElChiefMoore) March 18, 2017
Rory Best: "I have a responsibility to my team" to the ref on all these late Sexton hits. You tell him Besty… #IREvENG #RBS6Nations
— Seán McMahon (@Sean_McMahon89) March 18, 2017
