Irish provinces spared English uncertainties

Irish rugby, to borrow a phrase made famous by Harold McMillan, has never had it so good, says Brendan O’Brien.

Results on the field of play have dictated that mood of optimism, as well they should. Six Nations titles, a Grand Slam and a Test series win in Australia for Joe Schmidt’s Ireland team have been supplemented by league successes for Connacht and Leinster and the latter’s fourth European title. Munster have been agonisingly close on both fronts.

Less remarked upon are is the foundations it’s all built on.