Heaslip has no fears for debut boy McLaughlin

JAMIE HEASLIP has no fears for new Irish cap Kevin McLaughlin in Saturday’s RBS Six Nations opener against Italy at Croke Park.

Heaslip believes McLaughlin is the perfect choice to match the physicality of the Italians in the absence of heavy-hitter Stephen Ferris.

As Heaslip prepares to roll up his sleeves, he is confident of having a willing ally at his side against the abrasive Italians.