Rory Scannell making the most of his opportunity

It says plenty about Rory Scannell’s form this season and his immense contribution to Munster’s run of form that he has kept his place in the centre ahead of Springbok Jaco Taute and Francis Saili, an All Black.

The 23-year-old Dolphin man has allied deft footwork and a fearless disposition in both attack and defence to a natural, left footed kicking game that has made him an invaluable midfield partner to out-half Tyler Bleyendaal.

Scannell has been brave almost to a fault and has carried the scars of battle over the past two weeks, to such a degree that he jokes: “I’d say the girlfriend is not too happy, it’s two in two weeks now, getting a bit haggard!”