“He can play hooker, believe it or not” – Fogarty and Ireland keeping all options open
Options.
Ireland’s front-row depth has come under increased scrutiny over the past year, with a string of injuries forcing the coaching staff to look beyond the established options.
Jeremy Loughman’s concussion in Saturday’s win over Australia has only added to those concerns, with the Munster prop ruled out of this weekend’s clash against Japan. In his place, Connacht’s 20-year-old Billy Bohan is expected to make his debut, while provincial teammate Sam Illo is set to provide cover from the bench.
With the Rugby World Cup now less than a year away, Ireland scrum coach John Fogarty revealed that the coaching staff are already exploring unconventional options to increase versatility within the squad. Given the limited squad sizes at World Cups, the ability to cover multiple positions could prove invaluable.
One player being considered is Tom Clarkson, who Fogarty believes could switch across to loosehead if required.
“Tom Clarkson could slot in there (at loosehead),” Fogarty said.
“Ronan Kelleher I mentioned as a loosehead in school. We stick him in at loosehead in training on three v threes. A very strong, robust hooker that could acquit himself well there.
“Nick Timoney can play hooker, believe it or not. Very good scrummaging hooker.
“And I’m looking at Bryn Ward all the time kind of going- He’s 120kgs. I’m looking at him going, “Come over here, big boy.”
“But I haven’t gone there yet with Bryn. We’ll see how he goes as a back row. That’d be exciting.”
With injuries continuing to test Ireland’s depth, Fogarty’s comments offer an intriguing insight into the long-term planning taking place behind the scenes.
Whether any of those positional switches are needed before next year’s World Cup remains to be seen, but it’s clear Ireland are leaving no stone unturned as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
