Overlooked.

Tommy Bowe says he’s surprised former Ulster teammate Stuart McCloskey was overlooked by Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt when he named his Rugby World Cup training squad last week.

McCloskey has been outstanding for the northern province this year, earning a spot in the PRO14 Dream Team, as well as topping the charts in a number of key statistical areas compared to his fellow Irish centres.

“I was surprised Stuart didn’t get the nod,” Bowe said

“I think he’s had an outstanding season this year.

“It is disappointing he hasn’t gotten the nod because he probably has warranted that position in the team, in the squad certainly. For a player to get player of the year for Ulster, has had an outstanding season, he offers something different, he does get the gainline, but he can offer a huge amount more in terms of offloading.

“Listen Joe has an idea of what he wants, he’ll tailor his squad around that, and unfortunately Stuart’s face hasn’t fit.”

Tommy Bowe was speaking at the launch of Aviva’s Pride campaign yesterday.