Cronin: We have no fears for Aussie battle

SEAN CRONIN has revealed that there is no lack of appetite for battle in the Irish camp ahead of Saturday’s season finale against the Wallabies in Brisbane.

The Ireland hooker is one of those fighting for a starting spot with three other No.2’s here in Brisbane with Declan Kidney’s panel. An injury crisis may have blighted this tour but the Irish coach still has tight calls to make.

“It has been (really feisty). It is lively,” smiled the Connacht front row. “There’s a lot of fellas trying to put down a marker over the last couple of weeks and this week now as well. I think everyone has got a bit of a run-out (over the past fortnight) as well, so they’re trying to put their best foot forward and hopefully (play) again this weekend.” Cronin dismissed talk about the Australian front row being the hosts’ key area of weakness.