Hayes unconcerned by ‘hypothetical’ Ireland call-up

TOM HAYES says he’s focusing entirely on captaining Exeter Chiefs to another successful season, insisting his international aspirations won’t factor in.

The Limerick native has never been capped by Ireland but is regarded as one of the top second-row forwards in the Aviva Premiership, having been named in the English top flight’s team of the season for 2010/’11 back in May.

The former Bruff and Shannon lock has started this season in a similar vein of form, leading Exeter to a place in the top five after six games. Hayes, the younger brother of Munster prop John, has been plying his trade in the English game since moving to Plymouth Albion in 2005 and subsequently qualifies to play for England at international level.