Murray ready for Italian job

CONOR MURRAY’S selection as Ireland’s starting scrum-half tomorrow against Italy may have come as a surprise to some Irish fans but his captain and teammates have wholeheartedly endorsed the 22-year-old as good and ready for the most important match of his fledgling career.

Barely out of the Munster Academy, the Patrickswell, Co. Limerick player has quickly adapted to life, first as a provincial starter and now as an Irish international.

Murray only made his Ireland debut in Bordeaux eight weeks ago, coming on as substitute in the pre-season Test defeat to France. His first start came in the opening World Cup game against the United States on September 11 and after an impressive 20 minutes off the bench to help close out that historic first win over Australia in Auckland a fortnight ago, Murray has been handed the role alongside half-back partner Ronan O’Gara.