Robbie Henshaw recently made a quiet visit to his hometown club where he presented a British & Irish Lions jersey signed by his fellow touring colleagues who are currently preparing for their first test against South Africa on Saturday.
The proud recipient of the famous red jersey on behalf of Buccaneers Rugby Football Club was Pat Hynes. Two legends of the club coming together, with Big Pat a massive and proud fan of the Ireland and Leinster star.
Henshaw, the form centre in the Northern Hemisphere this past season, made his first appearance on South African soil in last Saturday’s 49-3 walloping of the Stormers. The Athlonian put in a commendable effort for almost an hour on his return to action following a hamstring injury. He will surely start in the first test against South Africa on Saturday next which kicks off at 5 pm in Cape Town. With the three tests against the world champions all now likely to be played there, the tourists should benefit from the lower altitude.
I’m guessing that Henshaw will be joined on the Lions starting XV by fellow Ireland players Conor Murray and the two Tadhgs, Furlong and Beirne. Jack Conan and Bundee Aki could also be included.
Meanwhile, squad captain Alun Wyn Jones has made a remarkable recovery from a dislocated shoulder just a few weeks ago. The inspiring Wales skipper may be held in reserve on the bench where he could be joined by wildcard Marcus Smith, the youngster impressing beyond his years in recent weeks.
You can watch all three tests over the next three Saturdays on the various big screens in the impressive pagoda at The Bounty where the atmosphere will surely be electric especially when Robbie is playing. The Lions will have a media/camera crew at Dubarry Park on Saturday which will surely add to the occasion. Best to book your table early!
Here’s wishing Robbie and his fellow Lions a successful and safe series.
Jordan Conroy Off To Olympics
Another young Buccaneers player heading off on the trip of a lifetime is Jordan Conroy. The Tullamore man is heading to the Olympic Games which commence in Tokyo on Friday. Conroy is a key component of the Ireland Sevens rugby squad bidding for Olympic glory.
They kick off their bid for gold against Rio bronze medallists South Africa on Tuesday, July 27th at 11 am (local time ). Ireland are also joined in Pool C by USA and Kenya with the 12 competing nations divided into four pools. Jordan is Ireland’s top try scorer at present and here’s hoping that he continues to mine his rich scoring vein in Japan. We will be looking forward to seeing him in flying form on RTE TV. Best wishes to Jordan and the Ireland squad from all at Buccaneers!
Condolences
Deepest sympathy is extended to the family of the late Frank Pettit. He was a founding member of Creggs RFC and was honoured as President of Connacht Rugby in 1984/85. May he rest in eternal peace.
50/50 Draw Winner
Oisin Stronge’s name came out of the hat in last week’s Buccaneers RFC 50/50 Draw and he wins €156.
