Flannery fearless whenever ‘The Bull’ is by his side

JERRY FLANNERY yesterday paid tribute to his front-row partner, John Hayes, praising his longevity as a prop, enduring professionalism and attention to detail in a remarkable career for province and country.

On Saturday, Hayes wins a record-equalling 92nd Ireland cap, and with each passing season his appearance statistics are becoming more impressive: not only is the Cappamore, Co Limerick native moving closer to becoming Ireland’s first centurion, the Croke Park Test against England also marks his 47th successive Six Nations start since his debut against Scotland in 2000.

But there has been a duracell-quality to Hayes’ performances this season, particularly at international level where he has started and finished the last two Test matches. All of this being achieved, remember, at the ripe old age of 35.