Columns - Irish Examiner

Donal Lenihan

Does Ian Madigan need a change of province to reach the next level?

IF you are still feeling sick after Ireland’s massively disappointing exit from the World Cup, put yourself in the shoes of the long-suffering Scottish players and supporters for a brief second.

Wed, 21 Oct, 2015

A period of reflection is now required

“Four more years ......” Those immortal words whispered into New Zealand scrum-half Justin Marshall’s ear by his Wallaby counterpart George Gregan when Australia beat the All Blacks in the 2003 Rugby World Cup semi-final came flooding into my mind at the final whistle in Cardiff yesterday.

Mon, 19 Oct, 2015

If you thought last week was tough...

Donal Lenihan looks at the three key challenges Ireland must overcome in order to beat the Pumas in the Rugby World Cup quarter final...

Sat, 17 Oct, 2015

Irish have capacity to triumph in adversity

Before looking forward to a quartet of mouthwatering World Cup knockout clashes next weekend, I have to indulge myself again on Ireland’s character- filled pool win over France last Sunday.

Wed, 14 Oct, 2015

Enjoy this — there’s a Puma pummelling coming next

After months of speculation and endless debate, now we know. 

Mon, 12 Oct, 2015

Eddie Jones could restore England’s dynamism

Despite the fact that the Sunday journalists faced a deadline 30 minutes after the finish of England’s pool defining game against Australia on Saturday night, there was very little sign of anxiety within the Twickenham press box. The obituaries on England’s campaign had already been written during the week. All that was required was to press the send button.

Wed, 07 Oct, 2015

VIDEO: Increased spotlight will pay off for Ireland

There may be a full round of pool games to go over the course of the next seven days but already five teams, including Ireland, have booked a safe passage to the knockout phase of the Rugby World Cup.

Mon, 05 Oct, 2015

Can Parisse’s outsiders summon one last stand?

Fear is Italy’s best friend for today’s clash, suggests Donal Lenihan.

Sat, 03 Oct, 2015

Will being the host inspire or suffocate England?

To host or not to host, that is the question. After witnessing first hand the buzz and excitement that has been so evident at the four games I have attended over the opening two weekends of World Cup action, I can think of nothing better than the prospect of Ireland hosting the event in eight years’ time, writes Donal Lenihan.

Wed, 30 Sep, 2015

Ten points and top of the table

THE famed twin towers may no longer be standing but Wembley remains an intoxicating sports arena for players and fans alike, writes Donal Lenihan. Why else would a world record attendance for a Rugby World Cup game be broken two Sundays in succession? 

Mon, 28 Sep, 2015