Hundredth cap leaves man of few words front and centre

JOHN HAYES looked like he would be happier in front of a firing squad than answering a spate of questions at yesterday’s press conference in Killiney at which the hero of the hour was chosen to play his 100th match for Ireland at Twickenham on Saturday.

When it comes to true, genuine modesty and an aversion to the limelight, they don’t come more dedicated to the cause than the 36 year-old Co Limerick farmer. And yet he’s been at the coalface of rugby at the highest level since he made his international debut against Scotland at Lansdowne Road in 2000.

Four others, Ronan O’Gara, Peter Stringer, Shane Horgan and Simon Easterby were also called up for their first caps that day. Ireland duly walloped the hapless Scots that day and the illustrious quintet went on to win a multitude of Irish caps.