Johnny Sexton Likens Craig Casey To One Of Rugby’s All-Time Greats
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Obsessed.
Ireland got back to winning ways in the Six Nations yesterday afternoon with a comprehensive six-try, 48-10 win over Italy in Rome.
Tries from Garry Ringrose, Will Connors (2), Hugo Keenan, CJ Stander and Keith Earls ensured a bonus-point victory for the men in the green in the end and a much-needed confidence booster ahead of the final two rounds.
It also marked a special day for Craig Casey with the 21-year-old Munster scrumhalf coming on the bench to make his debut in an excellent cameo that has a lot of people talking.
Casey brought some excellent zip to Ireland’s backline with plenty of variation. He’s been likened to Springboks nine Faf de Klerk in the past but Ireland captain Johnny Sexton has another comparison for us based on Casey’s incredible preparation and dedication to his craft.
“Craig Casey, I didn’t know him that well obviously, I had never played with him, but his attitude is… I don’t think I have ever come across anyone [like him],” Sexton said.
“It kind of reminds me of what I read about Jonny Wilkinson, that’s the only person I can relate him to. It’s inspiring for the rest of the group and for someone like me, at this stage in my career, I like to be last off the pitch and I am never last off the pitch with him around. He has been brilliant.
Casey was asked about those comments shortly after and of course – he’s happy to be compared to the legendary Wilkinson.
“He said this to me a few weeks ago. I think it’s to do with obsessiveness with rugby,” Casey said.
“I’ll take that compliment, yeah. Being compared to Jonny Wilkinson, I’ll definitely take that.”
A bright prospect indeed who by the sounds of it – will force his way to the top no matter what.